Lady Statesmen hope to build upon last season’s progress in 2026-2027
The Delta State University women’s basketball team enters the 2026-27 season with momentum after a solid campaign and elevated preseason expectations under head coach Tracy Stewart-Lange.
Last Season Recap
In 2025-26 the Lady Statesmen posted an 18-11 overall record and a strong 15-7 mark in Gulf South Conference play. They finished as one of the top teams in the league, advanced in the GSC Tournament, and showed particular strength at home (12-2). Key contributors included guard Jariyah Williamson (team-leading 11.8 points per game), forward Dakiya Toney (9.5 points and 6.4 rebounds), and a balanced supporting cast that emphasized defense and rebounding.
Preseason Outlook
Delta State was picked fourth in the 2026 GSC Preseason Coaches’ Poll with 73 points. UAH was selected as the favorite, followed by Union and Lee.
Three players earned spots on the GSC Preseason Newcomers to Watch list:
- Junior guard Vivian Sketoe
- Freshman guard Sydney Glahn
- Freshman guard Maddie Mannion
Coaching and Roster Notes
Head coach Tracy Stewart-Lange returns for another season, continuing to build on the program’s rich tradition (six national championships and 16 GSC titles historically). Assistant Julie Church and the rest of the staff remain in place.
The roster blends experienced returners with promising newcomers. Notable returning pieces include senior forward Alyse Holliman (a strong rebounder), senior guard Madi Kate Vuncannon (a reliable three-point threat), junior guard Jariyah Williamson, and others who provided production last season. New additions, including the three newcomers highlighted above plus size in the frontcourt (such as freshman center Evelyn Eubanks), give the Lady Statesmen greater depth and versatility.
Schedule Snapshot
The Lady Statesmen opened with a preseason exhibition loss at Arkansas State (84-60 on Oct. 28) that provided valuable experience against Division I competition.
Regular-season action begins with a road trip, followed by a home non-conference slate that includes Harding (Nov. 13) and Arkansas Tech (Nov. 14) at Walter Sillers Coliseum as part of a crossover event. Other early games feature trips to Arkansas-Monticello, Washburn, and Henderson State.
Gulf South Conference play opens at home on Thursday, Dec. 3, against Christian Brothers, with a tough slate that includes road games at Lee, Trevecca Nazarene, UAH, and West Alabama, plus key home dates against Valdosta State, Montevallo, and others.
Bottom Line
Coming off an 18-win season and a fourth-place preseason ranking, the Lady Statesmen enter 2026-27 as a legitimate contender in the GSC. Returning experience, quality newcomers, and Stewart-Lange’s steady leadership position Delta State to compete for a top seed and deep tournament run. Success will depend on continuity in the backcourt, continued improvement on the glass, and winning the close games that define conference play. Fans can look forward to an exciting season at Walter Sillers Coliseum as the Lady Statesmen aim to build on last year’s progress.