By: Clint Neumann
BURNSVILLE, Minn. – The University of Sioux Falls Women's Basketball team enters the 2025-26 campaign with high expectations after being picked tied for second in the NSIC Preseason Coaches' Poll and third in the South Division.
Coming off a 17-14 season (12-10 NSIC) that saw the Cougars finish fifth in the standings, Head Coach Travis Traphagen begins his 18th season at the helm with a strong, experienced core eager to make another jump in the conference standings.
Season Outlook
Despite having only one senior, USF brings back a deep and battle-tested lineup featuring players who have logged significant minutes early in their careers. Traphagen expects that experience and team chemistry to be key strengths entering the season.
"Even though we only have one senior on our roster, we are still young on paper but I believe we have a number of kids that have played lots of minutes as freshmen and sophomores," said Traphagen. "I like the leadership and experience our players have shown. I think you will see a team that will try to push the pace more than we have in the past because of the depth I believe we have on this team. The NSIC is always strong and we have such respect for the league. Finishing in fifth last season, our goals are to take another step forward and finish towards the top of the league."
USF's depth and improved tempo could make them one of the most exciting teams to watch in the NSIC this winter as they look to climb toward championship contention.
Athlete to Watch: Kami Wadsworth | Jr. | F | Hayti, S.D.
After a record-setting sophomore campaign, Kami Wadsworth returns as one of the most dynamic players in the NSIC and the focal point of the Cougar offense.
Wadsworth earned First Team All-NSIC honors last season after averaging 18.9 points per game — the most in a single season in USF's D2 era — while adding 4.9 rebounds, 69 assists, and shooting an efficient 48.3% from the floor. She reached double figures in scoring 29 times, including twelve 20+ point games and two 30-point performances.
"No one works harder at her craft than Kami," said Traphagen. "She is difficult for opposing teams to defend because of her versatility of playing inside and outside. She will be the focal point of many defenses this year, and we've surrounded her with players who can shoot the basketball. Being a two-year starter, she's really figured out our system and how she can help our team be successful."
Wadsworth enters her junior season as one of the NSIC's premier scorers and leaders, looking to build on her historic campaign as USF aims to contend for a league title.
Next Up
The Cougars open the season with an exhibition matchup at Division I Utah on November 3, followed by the MIAA/NSIC Challenge in St. Joseph, Missouri, where they'll face Northwest Missouri State and Fort Hays State.
USF's first NSIC game is set for November 25 at home against Southwest Minnesota State, kicking off what should be another competitive conference season.
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