Purdue University’s women’s basketball program has announced the addition of Zoja Stirn, a 5‑foot‑10 guard from Slovenia, to its 2026‑27 roster. The commitment marks the fourth international recruit in a class that will feature nine new players, five of whom are transfers. The move is part of an effort to reshape a squad that finished the previous season with a 13‑17 overall record and a 5‑13 mark in Big Ten play.
Stirn’s résumé includes extensive experience on the European stage. In the FIBA 2025 U20 Women’s EuroBasket, she averaged 8.1 points, 3.0 assists and 2.6 rebounds per game as Slovenia placed 12th out of 16 teams with a 3‑4 record. Two years earlier, at the 2023 U18 Women’s European Championship, she posted 12.4 points, 5.0 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game.
The Boilermakers have been active in the transfer portal and the recruiting market, bringing in prospects from a range of countries. In addition to Stirn, the roster will feature guards such as Keona Douwstra of the Netherlands, Katarina Sediva of Slovakia, Hannah Wickstrom of Australia, Jelena Bulajic of Montenegro, Anjela Minja of Tanzania, Maya Zilbershlag of Israel and the returning international contingent of Katie Gearlds.
A Global Talent Pool
The influx of international talent reflects a broader strategy by the coaching staff to compete at a higher level in the Big Ten. With a blend of seasoned transfers and promising newcomers, the team hopes to improve on its recent performance and secure a more favorable seed in the conference tournament.
Fans can expect a dynamic style of play as the new roster brings diverse skill sets and competitive fire. The coaching staff has emphasized chemistry and adaptability, traits that could prove decisive when the Boilermakers open their season against non‑conference opponents.
Overall, the additions signal a clear intent to build a more competitive program. By leveraging the experience of players like Stirn and the fresh perspectives of newcomers, Purdue aims to turn a challenging season into a platform for future success.