There have been a few bumps and bruises along the way, but Nina Branchizio took them all and came through it all so much stronger. The College of New Jersey senior has become the face of the women’s basketball program with her grit, determination, desire to succeed and a love for her teammates and the game. “I think going into college everyone tells you it’s the best four years and it truly is,’’ stated Branchizio. “I am a different person than I was four years ago and basketball is a huge part of it. Getting to do the thing I love day in and out with the people I love has been such an amazing experience. While it hasn’t all been easy, I wouldn’t change a thing. I am always grateful that I chose to come to TCNJ.’’ Branchizio’s demeanor, ability and leadership qualities make it a mutual respect situation.  She averages 34.4 minutes a game and she’ll definitely do something positive for all of those minutes. The Monroe High product will be in the lineup Wednesday when the first-place Lions (9-3, 5-0 NJAC) tangle with second-place Rowan (8-4, 4-1 NJAC) on the Packer Hall floor at 5 p.m. Being a senior this season has taken on a whole new meaning. “I think every practice and game I’m just trying my best to keep the mindset of just go out there and have fun,’’ Branchizio said. “I know a year from now I’m going to look back and miss playing so I’m trying to savor every moment I can. It’s been such an amazing experience playing at TCNJ.’’ She is one of the most prolific 3-point shooters in TCNJ history, connecting on 186 which is third best in program history behind Jen Hutchinson (268) and former teammate Julia Setaro (199). Branchizio averages 12.8 points and she’s been the all-around floor leader for the Lions just about since she arrived from Monroe. The Lions are led by Grace Kowalski with 13 points a game, Katie Fricker gets 11.8 points and leads in rebounding with 6.5 a game. With four freshmen on the roster, and Branchizio and Arianna McCleod the only seniors, and two grad students transfers injured the leadership chores have magnified. “My role has definitely extended more off the court this year,’’ said Branchizio. “Having the most experience and knowledge about what it is being an athlete means teaching the others too. It always is challenging welcoming newcomers and getting them adjusted, but I feel like we have gotten into a rhythm this season. The biggest thing I learned with my role is having patience. With my teammates and myself as well. Reminding myself that while it’s my job to play, it’s also my job to teach others.’’ One of the places Branchizio was able to teach was on the West Coast when the Lions took a two-game trip to California. “The highlight for me for the California trip was getting to play with my teammates in a new place and against different teams than we are used to seeing,’’ said Branchizio. “Aside from getting to play with my teammates, I really enjoyed getting to experience a new place. It was fun to see where Coach (Chessie Jackson) grew up visiting her hometown and high school were cool experiences for all of us. I’m really grateful I got to go on one last trip with my best friends.’’ The Lions finished the non-conference schedule with a 4-3 mark and plenty of lessons learned to take to the NJAC games. “Our non-conference games gives us a sense that we can match up against anyone,’’ said Branchizio. “I think with our out of conference play this season we are sending that message to the NJAC we are ready to take on NJAC play.’’ Is the NJAC ready for one final dose of Nina Branchizio?