The South Dakota women's basketball team is set for a substantial roster overhaul as it prepares for the 2026-27 season. Following a commendable 2025-26 run that saw them reach the WNIT Fab Four, the team is experiencing significant changes, with several key players moving on and a wave of new talent arriving. This strategic transformation, orchestrated by Head Coach Carrie Eighmey, includes the addition of four transfers and four promising freshmen, signaling a fresh start and a renewed focus on long-term team development. Eighmey's approach underscores a commitment to fostering team chemistry and filling essential positions, aiming to build upon the previous season's success and establish a resilient core for the future. The incoming players are expected to integrate seamlessly with the six returning athletes, creating a dynamic and competitive squad ready to tackle the challenges of the upcoming season.
Coach Eighmey acknowledged that while relying heavily on transfers was a necessity for her second season, it's not a sustainable long-term strategy for team building. However, the 2025-26 squad, featuring eight new faces from various institutions, proved highly successful, achieving an impressive 26-10 record and a deep run into the WNIT. This achievement highlighted the immediate impact that strategic transfer acquisitions can have. Now, with a more balanced approach for the 2026-27 season, Eighmey expressed excitement about the diverse composition of the team, which includes six seasoned returners, four experienced transfers, and four fresh collegiate talents. This blend is designed to provide both immediate impact and future growth, addressing both current needs and long-term aspirations for the program.
Among the key returners for the Coyotes are Molly Joyce, Jenna Hopp, Tori Schlagel, Alyssa Bartlett, Alex Flattery, and Kate Reyerson. These players will form the backbone of the team, providing continuity and leadership. The incoming freshman class is a notable addition, featuring Ashlan Carlow-Blount from Maȟpíya Lúta, Livi Downs from Mankato, Minnesota, Natalie Ramsey from North Liberty, Iowa, and Rowan Jacobi from Springville, Iowa. Eighmey specifically highlighted her enthusiasm for all three segments of the roster—the experienced returners, the impactful transfers, and the promising freshmen—believing that this combination will foster excellent chemistry and lay the groundwork for a strong future. The departures of Angelina Robles, Elise Turrubiates, Patience Williams, and Josie Hill, alongside four others entering the transfer portal, have opened up opportunities for new players to step into significant roles.
The coaching staff's recruitment efforts were particularly focused on securing talent that could immediately contribute and address specific positional needs. Bri Robinson, a 5-foot-8 point guard from Northern Iowa, was a top target for Eighmey, who had previously recruited her. Robinson's statistics—averaging 8.8 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.4 assists—and her proficiency from the field and beyond the arc make her a valuable asset. Eighmey noted Robinson's defensive prowess and ability to both score and orchestrate the offense, drawing comparisons to former player Angie in terms of style but emphasizing her unique strengths. Robinson is expected to share ball-handling responsibilities with Bartlett and Carlow-Blount, ensuring a strong backcourt presence for the Coyotes.
Another significant addition is Gabby Jackson, a 6-foot-1 forward from North Alabama. Jackson, an All-Atlantic Sun Freshman Team member, brings impressive stats with 7.7 points and 6.8 rebounds per game. Eighmey praised Jackson's high potential, skill set, and athletic ability, highlighting her as an elite passer who can score effectively. Jackson’s three years of remaining eligibility also make her a long-term investment for the team. Latazia Williamson, a 6-foot-1 center from Kennesaw State, further strengthens the frontcourt. Known for her physicality and strong presence on the boards, Williamson averaged 8.8 points and 5.5 rebounds. Eighmey anticipates Williamson will be a versatile, elite defender, similar to Elise Turrubiates, providing a crucial one-year solution at the center position with significant playing time. Ava Miller, a 6-foot-2 stretch big from North Dakota, joins as an in-league transfer with two years of eligibility left. Miller’s ability to score from both inside and outside the arc, evidenced by her 34% career three-point percentage and averages of 7.9 points and 7.3 rebounds, will add a diverse dimension to the frontcourt rotation alongside Jackson, Williamson, Reyerson, Ramsey, and Jacobi.
The departing players include Olivia Kieffer, who is transferring to Black Hills State (Division II) after playing 92 games for the Coyotes and averaging 3.8 points. Grace Peterson, who appeared in 19 games in her freshman year, is moving to Northern State (Division II). Brooke Jensen, who redshirted her freshman year and did not play, is also heading to Northern State. Olivia Moore, after playing for Long Beach State and Seattle, spent one season with the Coyotes, appearing in 24 games and averaging 1.4 points, and is currently uncommitted. These transitions mark the natural evolution of a collegiate sports program, as players seek new opportunities and the team continually refreshes its roster with emerging talent.
This comprehensive roster adjustment for the South Dakota women's basketball team reflects a proactive strategy to maintain competitiveness and foster sustainable growth. By integrating a mix of seasoned returners, impactful transfers, and promising freshmen, Coach Eighmey is building a versatile and dynamic squad. The focus on developing strong team chemistry and addressing specific player needs underscores a commitment to both immediate success and long-term program stability. This blend of experience and fresh talent is poised to create an exciting and competitive environment, as the Coyotes look to continue their success on the court in the upcoming seasons.