With the women’s basketball season coming to an end, The Collegian has highlighted some of the team’s greatest accomplishments and the reasons behind their success during their historic season.  

The Wolves had some impressive wins against fierce rivals including Warner Pacific, Corban, Multnomah, and Evergreen College. The Wolves’ convincing 71-61 win against Multnomah was followed by their 44-37 win against Warner Pacific, claiming their first back-to-back win since 2015.  

“The most memorable part of the season was probably our win against Evergreen. It was such an exciting win, everyone was so clutch, and it was so much fun to win with this team. We all worked together and it paid off,” said freshman shooting guard Gwen Fayard. [1] The Wolves have been able to rise to the occasion in the most intensifying games, pulling off a close victory of 49-48 against Evergreen.  

“A challenge we overcame was staying conditioned throughout the season since we didn’t have as many players as other teams. Also, we stayed healthy the majority of the season which was huge for us,” said coach Tony Nakashima, who has been an integral figure in the turnaround of the program since his arrival in 2021. [2] 

Sophomore forward Jordan Green-Wallace acknowledged her own adversity during the season, saying, “Having three knee surgeries took a toll on my body. I couldn't see the team and I missed out on a lot of things. Coming back to see the girls win meant the world to see and live through.” [3] Wallace’s injuries were met with the support and resilience of her own teammates, battling in reaching their historical season since its official involvement in the NAIA league from the 2010-2011 season.  

The record-breaking season led to some electrifying individual performances, with senior point guard Jaliyah Casem scoring a career-high of 30 points against Corban University at home. The Wolves managed to bounce back from their previous loss at Corban University to dominate at home with a final winning score of 77-66.  

So, what is behind the team’s success this season? Nakashima answered by saying, “Everyone got along with each other and genuinely liked being around each other. There was chemistry off the court which translated to the court.” [4] 

What is the next chapter for WWU’s women’s basketball team? With graduation creeping closer, the starting senior players are on their way out, bringing its own set of challenges. Nevertheless, the team continues to build upon its recent performances on a newly found culture fueled with the desire to win.  

Don't miss out on the action-packed excitement and thrilling season ahead. Come be a part of the unforgettable experience that is WWU women's basketball! 

References 

1. Email interview with Gwen Fayard, 2/23/2023. 
2. Email interview with Tony Nakashima, 2/23/2023. 
3. Email interview with Jordan Green Wallace, 2/22/2023. 
4. Email interview with Tony Nakashima, 2/23/2023. 

Photos  

Photos from uwolves.com.