New faces, same fight for women’s basketball
A new era of Augustana women’s basketball tips off this season — one defined by energy, depth and a roster full of fresh faces ready to prove themselves. Ranked 16th in the NSIC Preseason Coaches’ Poll and eighth in the South Division, the Vikings are ready to make their mark in a competitive conference under second-year head coach Nate Vogel.
After a year of transition, the roster features an almost entirely new lineup — seven transfers and five freshmen join returners sophomore forward Isabella Sanneh and junior guard Payton Hardy. Despite the roster turnover, Vogel said the team’s chemistry has developed quickly thanks to intentional recruiting and a strong locker room culture.
“Our culture is really, really good,” Vogel said. “The number one thing we’ve focused on is taking care of each other, and this group has done an exceptional job of that. They’re in the gym doing extra work, watching film — just really committed to each other and to getting better.”
Sanneh, who appeared in all 28 games last season while averaging 6.6 points and 2.9 rebounds per game, was named the Viking’s Player to Watch. She led the team in free-throw attempts at 96 and now steps into a leadership role for a roster loaded with new talent.
“Bella’s one of our hardest workers,” Vogel said. “She’s that coach on the floor — always communicating and helping the new players get comfortable.”
Among those newcomers are transfers junior Maliyah Elliott and senior Kristin Edmonds, two guards who bring experience and energy to the program. Both praised Vogel’s consistency during recruiting and the team’s welcoming atmosphere.
“He wants us to always be on the go — pushing the pace, putting pressure on other teams,” Elliott said. “It’s definitely been an adjustment coming from a slower system, but it’s exciting.”
Edmonds said she hopes to make her final collegiate season her best one yet.
“I just want to stay positive and focus on each opportunity that I have to play the sport I love with a great group of girls and coaches,” she said.
With defense already a strength and offensive efficiency the main focus for improvement, Augustana’s early-season goal is simple: play fast, play together and keep getting better.
Fans will get their first look at the new-look Vikings at home during the MIAA/NSIC Crossover, hosting Missouri Western on Nov. 14 and Central Missouri on Nov. 15. Augustana’s conference opener comes Nov. 25 at Wayne State.
Despite the roster overhaul and tough competition ahead, Vogel is confident this team’s chemistry and drive will set them apart.
“We’ll play really, really hard,” he said. “You’ll see a team that enjoys being around each other and enjoys playing basketball. I think that’s going to take us a long way.”
