CLEVELAND, Miss. – The Delta State University women's basketball team enters the 2025-26 season energized and determined to compete at a high level, building on last year's progress with high hopes for the new season. 

Head Coach Tracy Stewart-Lange enters her fourth season at the helm of the Delta State Lady Statesmen. DSU is coming off a 13-15 overall record in 2024-25, including a 9-13 mark in Gulf South Conference play. Delta State averaged 58.9 points per game while holding opponents to 60.0 points, highlighting the team's defensive toughness and ability to stay in close contests. 

Leading the group of returners is Dakiya Toney, a 5-foot-11 forward who emerged as a strong two-way presence last season. Toney ranked second on the team in rebounds with 6.3 boards per game and blocks with 19, proving to be a consistent force in the paint with her size, versatility, and defensive instincts. 

Also returning are senior Olivia Allen, a 5-foot-5 guard from Batesville, Ark., and junior Madi Kate Vuncannon, a 5-foot-9 guard from Tiplersville. Allen averaged 9.1 points per game, third-best on the team, and delivered several standout performances including a 21-point effort against Harding on November 26, 2024. Vuncannon returns as the leading 3-point shooter, recording a 38.5% shooting percentage from beyond the arc.

While Delta State brings back some key contributors, the team will look to fill the void left by the graduation of three important players, most notably Grace Watson and Wakiryah Daniels, who led the squad in scoring last season. Their leadership and offensive production will be missed, but the coaching staff is confident in the growth and maturity of the returning group. 

Delta State's non-conference slate features contests against Miles, Southern Arkansas, Arkansas–Monticello, Arkansas Tech, and Harding. Delta State opens GSC play at home on Thursday, Dec. 4, taking on Union at 5:30 p.m. at Sillers Coliseum. 

The Lady Statesmen were picked to finish sixth in the GSC Preseason Coaches Poll earlier this month with Bailey Featherstone, Kennedee Shelton, and Jariyah Williamson named to the Newcomers to Watch list.

For the full 2025 schedule, visit GoStatesmen.com