Cal Poly Women's Basketball Begins 2026-27 Season with First Practice

The squad includes an equal mix of eight returning players and eight newcomers, which features five transfers, four of whom come from Division I programs. New assistant coach Ed Daniels is also expected to make a significant impact.

Among the returning guards, Gabby Robinson, despite facing injuries last season, averaged 25.5 minutes in 11 appearances. Other key returning guards include Jordan Billing, Katie Peiffer, Ella Skrzyniarz, and Madison Butcher, all of whom are anticipated to have crucial roles in the guard rotation.

Leading the incoming transfers is Sumer Lee, a former DePaul player who participated in 74 games and made 30 starts. A veteran of Canada’s U16 and U17 national teams, she is currently rehabbing but is expected to contribute significantly as a floor general for the Mustangs.

Other notable newcomers include first-year players Lena Most and Atlanta Bass-Sulpizio, along with transfers Mecca Alexander, Maddy Tauro, and Ysabella Von Seipler. Alexander has experience with 47 games and six starts at San Jose State, Tauro started 22 games at Cal State Fullerton last season, averaging 2.4 steals per game, while Von Seipler achieved shooting percentages of 47% from both the field and three-point range in 17 games at San Diego last season.

In the frontcourt, Nora Perez stands out among returners after shooting 43% from the field in 2025-26, while Dulci Vail, who shot over 43% from three last season, will compete for playing time. Avery Knapp, who received a full scholarship after two years as a walk-on, is also in contention for minutes.

The frontcourt will be strengthened by Dessi Ulmer, who averaged 11.8 points and 7.1 rebounds at Colby Community College and earned All-Conference honors twice, along with freshman Bianca Slone.