K-State Women’s Basketball Faces Roster Overhaul After Sweet Sixteen Run
Manhattan, KS – The Kansas State Wildcats women’s basketball team is facing a monumental rebuilding challenge following their impressive Sweet Sixteen run. The departure of key players, including AP All-American Ayoka Lee and WNBA-bound Serena Sundell, coupled with a wave of transfers, has left head coach Jeff Mittie with a vastly altered roster.
The Wildcats saw several players enter the transfer portal, including starting sophomore guard Zyanna Walker, redshirt senior Brylee Glenn, junior reserve forward Eliza Maupin, and freshman guard Finley Ohnstad. These departures, combined with the graduation of key players like Temira Poindexter, Jaelyn Glenn, and Kennedy Taylor, represent a significant loss of experience and talent. The team heading into next season will bear little resemblance to the squad that made a deep tournament run.
Despite the substantial roster turnover, expectations remain high for the Wildcats. Coach Mittie is actively working to address the departures, having already secured several impactful recruits. The highly touted five-star guard Jordan Speiser is a major addition, providing a solid foundation for the backcourt. The exciting news of Taryn Sides’ return further strengthens the team’s core.
Further bolstering the roster are the signings of Aniya Foy, a four-star guard, and Gina Garcia Safont, a Spanish national point guard. Adding to this positive momentum is the commitment of forward Brandie Harrod, who chose K-State after a coaching change at Auburn. While these additions inject significant talent and potential, addressing the frontcourt remains a priority. The loss of Maupin leaves a considerable void in the team’s interior presence.
The team’s success next season hinges on its ability to fill the remaining holes and quickly integrate the new talent. Finding a post player comparable to Maupin’s contribution will be crucial. If Mittie can secure a player of similar caliber, the Wildcats’ potential for another successful season, albeit after an expected adjustment period, could be realized.
Despite the significant challenges, K-State appears to be proactive in reshaping its roster. The commitments of several high-profile recruits, combined with the return of key players, suggest a team striving for continued success. The upcoming season is likely to be one of transition and rebuilding, but with the right additions and effective coaching, the Wildcats could be poised for another deep tournament run in the future. The next few months will be critical in determining just how successfully Coach Mittie can navigate this significant roster upheaval and build a contender for the coming year.
