The University of Vermont women's basketball program is set to welcome a quintet of newcomers for the 2026‑27 campaign, a move that underscores the team's ambition to deepen its roster with both skill and international flair.
Among the arrivals are two experienced transfers and three freshmen, each hailing from distinct corners of the globe, bringing a mosaic of playing styles and cultural perspectives that promise to enrich the squad's dynamics.
Arantxa Portalez, a 6‑foot‑2 senior forward, joins after stints at the University of Delaware and Spanish club Casademont Zaragoza, where she honed a versatile offensive game. Meja Jaegerskog, a 6‑foot‑2 junior forward from Sweden, previously shone at Saint Joseph's University and represented her nation at the U18 level, adding a defensive edge and rebounding prowess.
Point guard Neta Mayshar, a 5‑foot‑6 playmaker from Jerusalem, earned All‑Star honors in Israel's Division A Premier League, while Sienna Papanastasiou‑Thomas, a 5‑foot‑8 guard from Ontario, captured Athlete of the Year and All‑Canadian accolades before committing to the Catamounts.
Completing the class, Maisie Keyes, a 5‑foot‑10 guard from England, accumulated MVP and all‑conference recognitions during her time with Ipswich Basketball Club and Manchester Mystics, bringing a tenacious work ethic to the lineup.
Coaching Vision
Head Coach Maureen Magarity expressed confidence that the blend of collegiate and overseas experience will translate into immediate competitiveness, both on the hardwood and within the Burlington community.
Magarity highlighted the recruits' character and competitiveness, noting that their diverse backgrounds foster a resilient mindset that aligns with the program's core values.
The coaching staff anticipates that the new players will not only contribute statistically but also serve as ambassadors for the university, engaging with local youth programs and fostering a stronger connection between the team and its supporters.