Montana State Women's Basketball Looks to Expand Its Horizon
Montana State University's women's basketball program is poised for another strong campaign after confirming the return of ten scholarship athletes from last season's historic run and the addition of two promising transfers from the portal.
Ebele Mbagwu, a 5-foot-6 guard hailing from Bakersfield, California, arrives after earning First-Team All-Conference honors at Miles Community College. In her most recent season she posted 13.3 points, 8.2 rebounds, 3.5 assists and a league-leading 121 steals, showcasing a blend of scoring, rebounding and defensive tenacity that coaches describe as 'dynamic' and capable of guarding the entire floor.
Coach Tricia Binford, who originally recruited Mbagwu out of high school, has praised the newcomer's work ethic and versatility, noting that her ability to pressure opponents for 94 feet adds depth at the guard position and complements the existing backcourt.
Braeden Gunlock, a 6-foot-0 guard/forward from Bigfork, brings a different set of strengths after a stint at Brigham Young University. Though she averaged just 1.5 points in 8.3 minutes per game last season, her high school pedigree includes leading the Valkyries to an undefeated 26-0 record and a Class B state championship, and she is celebrated for her scoring versatility and capacity to defend positions one through five.
Coach Binford's Vision for Depth and Flexibility
Binford emphasizes that Gunlock's skill set should provide the Bobcats with additional scoring options and defensive flexibility, allowing the team to experiment with lineups and maintain intensity throughout the schedule.
The coaching staff is confident that the blend of experienced returnees, the defensive grit of Mbagwu, and the multi-positional versatility of Gunlock will help the program stay competitive as it eyes an even stronger 2026 season, while the underclassmen continue to develop under the guidance of a seasoned staff.
A Strategic Boost for the Program
The strategic acquisitions reflect a calculated approach by Montana State's front office to address depth concerns and reinforce a defensive identity that proved pivotal during their recent championship run. By integrating players who have already proven themselves at the collegiate level, the Bobcats aim to sustain momentum and challenge for top honors in the Big Sky Conference.
Fans and analysts alike are already speculating about how the new roster pieces will mesh with returning starters, and early preseason practices suggest a competitive atmosphere that could translate into a formidable lineup on paper and on the court.