Axewomen add Annapolis Valley forward Eva O’Brien for 2026-27

The Axewomen basketball program has added a familiar face from the Annapolis Valley, as forward Eva O’Brien has committed to join the team for the 2026-27 season.

A native of Greenwich, N.S., O’Brien comes to Acadia after a strong high school career at Horton High School. The 6'1 forward will enter her first year of eligibility while studying in Acadia’s bachelor of science program in nutrition and dietetics.

O’Brien built an impressive resume with Horton’s Division 1 girls basketball program from 2022 to 2026. She was a four-time SSNS provincial medalist, winning one gold, two silver and one bronze. She also served as team captain in both the 2024-25 and 2025-26 seasons.

Her success extended beyond the high school level. O’Brien earned a bronze medal with Team Nova Scotia at the 2025 Canada Games and also represented her province with the Nova Scotia U17 team in 2024 and the U15 team in 2023.

She delivered several standout performances over the past two seasons. In November 2025, O’Brien helped her team win gold at the Eastern Canadian Classic and scored 30 points in the championship game. She also played a key role in Horton’s Division 1 provincial gold-medal run in March 2024, leading her team with 20 points in the final. In April 2026, she was named a Western Region League all-star.

During the 2025-26 season, O’Brien averaged 12.8 points, 9.6 rebounds and 3.4 blocks per game.

Acadia head coach Len Harvey said O’Brien’s growth and all-around impact made her a strong addition to the program.

“Eva is a really great pickup for our team,” said Harvey. “We’ve obviously known her for years here, and her game has really taken off over the last couple of seasons.”

“She’s a long, physical player who likes to play defence, particularly protecting the paint with her shot-blocking ability. Above all that though, we know we’re getting a wonderful student, and a high-character person who will help contribute to our culture and the campus.”

For O’Brien, the chance to stay close to home and join a program she has followed for years made Acadia a natural fit.

“Growing up in the Annapolis Valley, Acadia has always had a large presence in the basketball community,” said O’Brien. “I have been going to games there since I can remember and it is definitely a place where women’s basketball is appreciated.”

“I am extremely excited to become an Axewoman where I know I will be competing at the highest level with the best coaches and teammates. I am grateful for this opportunity to study at a school with such great academics and athletics.”