2026-27 NSIC Women's Basketball Preseason Coaches' Poll

10/15/2026 1:00:00 PM

MINNESOTA STATE TABBED PRESEASON FAVORITE

University of Mary Picked in North Division

NSIC Women’s Basketball 2026-27 Preseason Coaches’ Poll graphic on a blue background with gold accents. The graphic displays the overall preseason rankings and separate South and North Division rankings with point totals and first-place votes. Minnesota State is ranked No. 1 overall with 215 points, followed by Concordia-St. Paul, Sioux Falls, University of Mary, and Minnesota Duluth. Minnesota State leads the South Division poll, while the University of Mary tops the North Division poll. Minnesota State and University of Mary logos are featured on the right side. NCAA Division II and NSIC branding appear throughout the graphic.

BURNSVILLE, Minn. - Minnesota State University, Mankato was selected by NSIC coaches as the overall preseason favorite and the South Division favorite for the 2026-27 season. The Mavericks received 215 points and six first-place votes, finishing 21 points ahead of second-place Concordia-St. Paul. The Golden Bears earned four first-place votes, while Sioux Falls received five but ranked third with 185 points. The University of Mary, the North Division preseason favorite, placed fourth overall with 174 points and the remaining first-place vote.

The University of Mary had 45 points and four first place votes to top the north division poll.  Minnesota Duluth was a close second in the north poll with 43 points and three first place votes.  

NSIC coaches rank each team in the NSIC in the overall poll and team from their division in the divisional poll.  In the overall poll coaches rank from 1 to 15 with a first place vote receiving 15 points, second place 14, third place 13, etc. Coaches do not rank their own team or vote for their own players. 

The regular season champion will be based on the 22-game NSIC schedule. Each team will play teams in their division twice (14 divisional games) and teams in the other division once (8 out-of-division games). An NSIC North and South Division Champion will also be awarded. Divisional standings will also be based on all 22 NSIC contests played. In the event of a tie, co-champions will be awarded. 

The 2026-27 women’s basketball season gets underway at the end of October with non-conference action, while NSIC play begins in November.

The 12-team NSIC Women’s Basketball Tournament Quarterfinals, Semifinals and Championship are set to take place February 27-March 2 at the Sanford Pentagon in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The tournament will be seeded using the NSIC 22-game schedule, with the top four seeds receiving a first-round bye. First round games will be played on campus on Wednesday, February 24.

NSIC Women’s Basketball Preseason North Division Player of the Year graphic featuring #5 Allison Undlin of the University of Mary. The graphic uses a blue background with gold accents and displays “#NSICWBB” at the top left and “Preseason North Division Player of the Year” across the top and bottom in gold script lettering. The University of Mary Marauders logo appears above a headshot on the left side. A large action photo on the right shows Allison Undlin in a navy Marauders uniform dribbling a basketball while defended by an opposing player wearing a white jersey with the number 23. Text over the action photo reads “#5 ALLISON UNDLIN.” NSIC and NCAA Division II “Make It Yours” logos appear at the bottom corners of the graphic.
#5 Allison Undlin (C, 6-3, Sr., Mohall, N.D. / Mohall-Lansford-Sherwood HS) - University of Mary
  • Named first-team All-Conference in 2025-26
  • Earned NSIC Player of the Week honors twice last season
  • Started in all 33 games
  • Averaged 15.4 ppg, 8.2 rpg, and 2.1 bpg
  • Shot 60.9% from the field, 46.2% from three, and 75.6% from the free-throw line
  • Led the team in blocks, rebounding, and field goal percentage
  • Scored a career-high 25 points twice 
  • Grabbed a career-best 16 rebounds against MSU Moorhead
  • Recorded six blocks in three separate games
Allison essentially came out of nowhere last season to earn First Team All NSIC recognition. She worked extremely hard the last two seasons coming off multiple ACL surgeries and very little actual game action. As a staff we knew she had a chance to be a very good player, but I'd be lying if I said I knew she'd have the season she had. She is a complete offensive player, able to finish around the rim while being a must guard at the three-point line. Her versatility really allows our offense to be dynamic.
Head Coach Rick Neumann
NSIC Women’s Basketball preseason South Division Player of the Year graphic featuring #30 Lauren Wilson of Concordia-St. Paul. The design includes a blue background with gold accents, NSIC branding, and the headline “Preseason Player of the Year.” A large action photo shows Lauren Wilson reaching toward a basketball during game action, while a headshot appears on the left side. The Concordia-St. Paul mascot logo is displayed near the top left. Text identifies Lauren Wilson as the South Division Preseason Player of the Year. NCAA Division II and NSIC logos appear at the bottom.
#30 Lauren Wilson (F, 6-0, 5th, Springville, Iowa / Springville HS) - Concordia University, St. Paul
  • D2CCA All-Central Region Second Team
  • All-NSIC First Team and NSIC Tournament MVP
  • Two-time NSIC South Division Player of the Week 
  • Appeared in and started all 33 games for the Golden Bears
  • Led the NSIC in rebounds with 288
  • Led the Golden Bears in rebounds per game at 8.7, field goal percentage at 48.6% and blocks at 1.4 per game
  • Averaged 16.9 points, 3.1 assists and 1.6 steals per game
  • Scored a career-high 34 points while grabbing 14 rebounds as part of a double-double effort against Fort Hays State
  • Tied a career-high with 34 points against Michigan Tech
Lauren has one of the highest basketball IQs of any player I have coached over the years. She truly understands the game and uses that knowledge to her advantage on the court. She has been a part of our team for five years and has consistently proven herself to be a leader both on and off the court. Lauren is a dominant post player who can score from the inside out, and she has consistently stepped up for us during critical moments. Her understanding of the game, leadership, and ability to perform under pressure make her a very impactful player on our team.
Head Coach Amanda Johnson

NSIC Players to Watch & Coaches' Quotes

AUGUSTANA UNIVERSITY

We have eight returners who have worked hard to improve in the offseason. We've added a lot of length, athleticism and shooting. So we start the season with a very talented group. What makes most excited is how hard this team works on their own time. When you combine the talent this group has with the work ethic they all share, we think this could be a special group.
Head Coach Nate Vogel
Bella is a returning All-Conference player for us. She averaged a double-double for us last year and we expect her to be even better this year. There is no one who works harder to make herself better.
Head Coach Nate Vogel

BEMIDJI STATE UNIVERSITY

This group has been a lot of fun to get to know. We have a lot of new faces, and we also have several players who haven’t had the opportunity to see a lot of playing time in the past. What stands out to me is the excitement and energy they bring into the gym every day. You can tell this group is hungry. They’re eager to compete, eager to improve, and eager to show what they can do. There’s a lot of work ahead of us, but there’s also a lot of excitement surrounding this team. I’m really looking forward to seeing this group step on the floor and show what they’re about. I think our fans are going to enjoy watching this team grow and compete throughout the season.
Head Coach Madison McKeever
Aubrey comes back with a lot of valuable experience under her belt. Of all our returning players, she comes back with the most minutes, and that experience is going to be important for our team. She is familiar with our conference, understands the level of competition, and knows what it takes to make an impact on both ends of the floor. Her experience gives her a great foundation heading into this season, and I’m excited to see her continue to grow in her role. I’m really looking forward to seeing what Aubrey has in store for our team this season. I think her experience, confidence, and understanding of our program can make a big difference for us.
Head Coach Madison McKeever

CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY, ST. PAUL

What excites me most about this year’s team is the combination of experience, talent, and chemistry we have. We have a good mix of returning players who understand our system and younger players who bring energy and a willingness to learn. I’m excited to see how they continue to grow together, compete for one another, and develop into a team that plays with confidence and purpose. I believe this group has a lot of potential, and I’m looking forward to seeing what they can accomplish together.
Head Coach Amanda Johnson
Lauren has one of the highest basketball IQs of any player I have coached over the years. She truly understands the game and uses that knowledge to her advantage on the court. She has been a part of our team for five years and has consistently proven herself to be a leader both on and off the court. Lauren is a dominant post player who can score from the inside out, and she has consistently stepped up for us during critical moments. Her understanding of the game, leadership, and ability to perform under pressure make her a very impactful player on our team.
Head Coach Amanda Johnson

UNIVERSITY OF JAMESTOWN

Our team is excited to begin the season. We grow through returners' offseason progress and impact from new additions. Each week of practice provides more competition, improvement and excitement. We are focused to build our identity and play Jimmie Basketball!
Head Coach Thad Sankey
Kate rejoins our lineup after a redshirt year. She was a major factor in our team's success in her first three seasons. Kate's experience, leadership and ability are valuable to our team. Her on-court presence raises our level of competition.
Head Coach Thad Sankey

UNIVERSITY OF MARY

Our team welcomes eight new players to a returning core that experienced a top four finish and a semi-final appearance in the NSIC Tournament. The depth we have, especially on the perimeter, is something we intend to lean heavily on. The league should be as wide open as it ever has been, and we are confident when the dust settles, we will once again be in contention for a great post season run.
Head Coach Rick Neumann
Allison essentially came out of nowhere last season to earn First Team All NSIC recognition. She worked extremely hard the last two seasons coming off multiple ACL surgeries and very little actual game action. As a staff we knew she had a chance to be a very good player, but I'd be lying if I said I knew she'd have the season she had. She is a complete offensive player, able to finish around the rim while being a must guard at the three-point line. Her versatility really allows our offense to be dynamic.
Head Coach Rick Neumann

UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA CROOKSTON

This year's team is half returners and half newcomers creating a new identity for our program. Their willingness to learn and the passion that they show up with every day is contagious and they are just such a fun group to be around. We have a lot of room to grow but the sky is the limit for this bunch and I am excited to see what we can accomplish together!
Head Coach Natalie Moynihan
Rayna took a huge jump for us last year becoming our second leading scorer and leading rebounder. She has become a huge offensive force for us in the paint and has only gotten better over the summer. I am excited to see what she brings to our team this season both on and off the court!
Head Coach Natalie Moynihan

UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA DULUTH

Our team is together. Our connection is what we are built upon, and that foundation allows us to raise the bar and compete at the highest level. We bring a talented group with a great mix of youth and experience, and we’re excited about what that combination can become. This team has a genuine desire to be great, and that desire drives us to get better every day and enjoy the process along the way.
Head Coach Brooke Olson
Claire is the ultimate competitor. Her passion, work ethic, and experience show up every day. She has a relentless approach to competing and a mentality that raises the standard for those around her. We’re excited to see what she brings to this team this season.
Head Coach Brooke Olson

MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY, MANKATO

We have a great core of returning players who bring valuable experience and an understanding of what it takes to be successful at a high level. They will be the glue for this team as we welcome six freshmen and begin a new era of Maverick basketball. While there are new faces and new roles, the pace, energy, and growth have been outstanding.
Head Coach Emilee Thiesse
Rhyan has been a key contributor to our program’s success over the past two seasons. She is an incredibly explosive player who has the ability to create her own shot and finish through contact. Rhyan is also a phenomenal leader who brings tremendous intensity and energy to everything we do. Her work ethic and passion for the game elevate everyone around her. She sets the tone for our team every day, and we’re excited to see what she accomplishes this season.
Head Coach Emilee Thiesse

MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY MOORHEAD

The keys for us will be how we defend and rebound on both ends of the floor! We have a veteran group that is looking forward to putting their stamp on this season!
Head Coach Karla Nelson
As a sophomore Ash had a really solid year on both ends of the floor. Coming into her junior year, she has improved her offensive game and has become more dynamic. Where she really excels is on the defensive end, she will be very disruptive for the Dragons this season.
Head Coach Karla Nelson

MINOT STATE UNIVERSITY

I’m excited and optimistic about our team. I have been really proud of the way they have committed to working each day throughout the Fall. We have a good mix of experience and incoming players, I’m looking forward to seeing how they continue to grow and come together as a team.
Head Coach Ryan Clark
Taryn is a returning NSIC All-Conference player who averaged 15.9 points per game while shooting 37% from the 3-point line. On top of being a great athlete, Taryn is an all-around awesome person. She has been great for us throughout the fall, and I look forward to seeing the year she is capable of having!
Head Coach Ryan Clark

NORTHERN STATE UNIVERSITY

We maybe the youngest team I've had in all my years of coaching and it's exciting to watch them gel and learn together both on and off the court. We don't know what we don't know - so we are learning together. They are competitive and bring a toughness we need as we continue to grow together.
Head Coach Paula Krueger
Reagan had a really solid freshman season - she's long and athletic and is learning how to use her frame. Reagan has spent a lot of time in the gym working on her shot, coupled with her ability to get down hill - we hope to see her be a threat both inside and out on the offensive end. Defensively she has the ability and mentality to be a defensive stopper for us.
Head Coach Paula Krueger

University of Sioux Falls

What excites me about this year's team is I expect to have tremendous balance. I believe that we have much more depth than last year and also have much more experience. Our team is a very close knit group and if we commit to playing together on both the offensive and defensive side of the basketball we could have a high ceiling. I have tremendous respect for the other team's in the NSIC so we will have to work hard of reaching our goals which are high for us.
Head Coach Travis Traphagen
Kami averaged 19 points per game during the 2024-25 season before an injury ended her 2025-26 season. She is very versatile and a match up problem for a lot of teams because of her inside/outside presence. She shot 49% from the field and 45% from the 3 point line.
Head Coach Travis Traphagen

Southwest Minnesota State University

I’m excited about the mix of experience and youth. We have a core group that understands what it takes to compete in our league and a young group that is hungry to learn and earn opportunities. It’s going to be fun to watch this team grow.
Head Coach Tom Webb
Natalie’s ability to score both at the rim and on the perimeter, combined with her elite rebounding, makes her an extremely difficult matchup. What really stands out is her confidence in her teammates and her ability to lead. With a younger team this season, her experience, competitiveness, and consistency will be really important for us. We’re excited to see her continue to grow and embrace that leadership role.
Head Coach Tom Webb

St. Cloud State University

I’m looking forward to seeing the growth of this team and how quickly we can get our six new players up to speed. This group has put in a lot of work this offseason, and I’m excited to see how that translates to the court.
Head Coach Lori Fish
Alana has always been a strong player and fierce competitor. She has the ability to change the momentum of a game and will be a key leader for our team this season.
Head Coach Lori Fish

Wayne State College

We have more perimeter shooting and we've added some playmakers that will make us more dynamic on the offensive end. Our team is also much deeper than it was a year ago and we return two significant players from injury.
Head Coach Brian Ortmeier
Brooklyn has emerged as a great leader for our team throughout the preseason. She has battled back from an injury that prevented her from playing during the 25-26 school year. BK will be a force on defense and gives us a natural shot blocker that can protect the rim.
Head Coach Brian Ortmeier

Winona State University

What excites me most about this team is the confidence they have earned through a tremendous amount of hard work. This group has learned to embrace adversity with a positive mindset, ask great questions, and maintain a relentless desire to see how good they can become. They compete in everything they do—on the court and off—and have found a great balance between competitiveness and joy. They love to learn, they love the game, and they genuinely love being around each other. They bring an energy and enthusiasm to each day that makes this group incredibly fun to be around. They are ready to embrace the journey, lean into the challenges, and make the most of every opportunity this season brings.
Head Coach Ana Wurtz
Viv has approached every day since her first season with intention, competitiveness, and a relentless work ethic. She chases greatness in everything she does and has played a significant role in helping us elevate the culture and standard of our program. Each season, she has added new pieces to her game, expanded her role, and continued to grow as a player and leader. Viv holds herself and our program to an incredibly high standard. She is never satisfied, and that mindset continues to push those around her to be better.
Head Coach Ana Wurtz
#NSICWBB