Florida’s women’s basketball program is entering the 2026‑27 season with a completely overhauled roster, marking a decisive break from the previous year’s results.
A Coaching Change
Head coach Kelly Rae Finley was let go after failing to guide the team to the NCAA tournament for four consecutive years, paving the way for a new direction under Tammi Reiss.
Reiss, who previously led Rhode Island to an NCAA tournament appearance, arrived with a clear vision: to blend experience with fresh talent through the transfer portal and an aggressive recruiting campaign.
A Wave of New Faces
The new roster features 12 newcomers, among them junior guard Kiyomi McMiller, sophomore guard Vanessa Harris, and junior forward Aurora Almon, each bringing proven scoring or rebounding credentials from top programs.
Jade Weathersby stands as the sole returning player from the prior season, providing continuity while the influx of transfers adds depth at every position.
Notable additions include Ja’Niya Broome, a sophomore guard who earned NJCAA Division I first‑team All‑America honors, and Moriah Murray, a redshirt senior known for her perimeter shooting.
Other contributors such as Jordan Jones, Skye Owen, Bailey Harris, Taliyah Parker, Vivian Iwuchukwu, Mallory Miller and Maja Bigovic round out a squad that blends youthful energy with seasoned leadership.
Rankings and Early Preparations
The team has been tabbed No. 15 in the national USA Today poll, reflecting optimism about its championship potential. Summer practice commenced on June 18, giving the new coaching staff a head start on chemistry building.
Reiss has articulated a clear ambition: to capture the SEC title and pursue a run at the national championship, a goal that now feels attainable given the talent assembled.