Torero Family,

As the summer winds down, we wanted to take a moment to reflect on all that has taken place in our program over the past few months. It's been an exciting, energizing summer for Torero women's basketball — one marked by growth, connection and a powerful sense of what's ahead.

It's been an incredible first few months getting settled in San Diego and building out a staff full of rock star leaders who are ready to take this program to the next level. I've loved getting to know the Torero community and can't wait to keep connecting with more of you.

I'm especially excited about our upcoming USD Basketball Coaches Clinic on August 9 — it's going to be a special afternoon in our brand-new Basketball Performance Center. We've got some major names in the women's basketball world joining us, including USC head coach Lindsay Gottlieb and associate head coach Beth Burns. I can't wait to talk hoops, share ideas and show off this amazing new space.

Our players closed the academic year on a high note with a 3.26 team GPA — a testament to the discipline, time management and commitment our student-athletes bring both on and off the court.

We officially kicked off summer workouts on June 24 with a competitive and connected group — eight returners, five incoming freshmen and two new transfers. The energy in the gym has been unmatched, and we've already begun laying the foundation for the 2025-26 season.

We're excited to welcome two incredible additions to the Torero Family who are already making an immediate impact:

• Helen Holley brings dynamic athleticism, versatility and an edge on the defensive end. She rebounds, runs and defends with intensity and intention, setting the tone with her energy and grit. Helen has already made a statement with her effort and physicality — and we're excited about all the ways she'll impact both ends of the floor.
• Kylie Ray is a high-IQ guard with the ability to both score and facilitate at a high level. She plays with pace, purpose and maturity — bringing leadership, vision and a calm confidence that elevates those around her. She's an electric presence in the back court and someone our team feeds off.

Our freshmen have hit the ground running — learning, competing and elevating our standard from day one:

• A special shout out to Jessica Ajayi, who proudly represented USD and her country at the FIBA U19 World Cup in the Czech Republic — an incredible honor and experience!
• Ryanne Bahansen-Price adds versatility and shooting range, along with a growth mindset and eagerness to improve.
• Olivia Owens is a smooth, savvy guard who plays with poise and intelligence, both on and off the ball.
• Ysabella Von Seipler is a relentless, hard-working combo guard who brings constant energy and effort.
• Ayla Williams brings a winning mentality, vocal leadership and a defensive edge that lifts everyone around her.

Our returners have been the heartbeat of our summer:

• Hallie Rhodes and Jayden Rhodes are embracing their roles as seniors and setting the tone daily with their leadership, voice and work ethic. They're committed to leading this program forward and their influence has been felt in every aspect of our culture.
• Lilly Amor, Dresha Moore and Malia Tharpe continue to bring consistent energy, competitive fire, and a relentless focus to their growth. From spring to now, the strides they've made — physically, mentally and emotionally — have been remarkable.
  We couldn't be prouder of this group. They've trusted the vision since day one, and the Torero family should be incredibly proud of their commitment to building something meaningful.

This summer has also been a time of progress and patience for players returning from injury:

• Erica Carr and Eva Ruse have both made strong steps toward returning to full practices, and we're excited to see them continue to reintegrate into workouts and team sessions.
• We also want to recognize Lauren McCall, who has been attacking her rehab with determination and resilience. Her progress has been inspiring, and she continues to be an integral part of our team's growth and energy.
• These student-athletes are growing in new ways, and their journeys back are fueling the collective strength of this group.

From skill development and team practices to bonding activities and our new strength program, this summer has been about setting the tone — and our group has shown up every day to do just that. We're growing closer, building trust and shaping the identity of what Torero women's basketball is becoming.

Throughout July, we opened our practices to the public — and the response was phenomenal. Thank you to our alumni and San Diego community for showing up, supporting and seeing firsthand the work we're putting in. Your presence matters more than you know.

Our staff has been full-speed ahead on the recruiting trail through June and July — attending events, hosting visits and bringing future Toreros into the gym to see what makes this place so special. The buzz around the program is real, and the foundation we're laying is only getting stronger.

As the 2025-26 season draws closer, I can't wait to meet more of our great fans and alumni. We want the USD community to be along the way in our journey, and I can't wait to see all of our great fans in the Jenny Craig Pavilion for our home opener on Monday, November 3! If you don't want to miss a minute of the action for the San Diego women's basketball season, please click at the following link to purchase season tickets.