Oregon women's basketball coach Kelly Graves is already mapping out an ambitious campaign for the 2026‑27 season, setting his sights on a top‑16 seed that would guarantee a comfortable spot in the NCAA Tournament.
The Ducks enter the offseason with a roster that blends proven contributors with a wave of fresh talent, including a nationally ranked freshman class and several impact transfers who are expected to elevate the team's depth.
Junior forward Ehis Etute, who enjoyed a standout season last year, is expected to be a cornerstone of the program as the team looks to build on recent progress.
Among the newcomers, freshman guard La'u Pele Falatea arrives as the younger sister of former Duck Nani Falatea, bringing a blend of pedigree and hunger that has already caught the coach's eye.
Emilia Krstevski, a four‑star prospect, will anchor the frontcourt with her size and athleticism, while senior wing Sofia Bell has emerged as one of the Big Ten's premier perimeter defenders.
Mallory Heyer, a senior forward, contributes hard‑nosed rebounding and a veteran presence that should help stabilize the interior, and junior forward Hilary Fuller adds international experience and added size at the forward position.
Freshman guard Brooklynn Haywood, touted as Oregon's highest‑rated prospect by ESPN, is expected to make an immediate impact, while fellow rookie Kennedy Holman, a four‑star point guard and legacy player, will look to orchestrate the offense.
Veteran guard Ari Long will need to step up his scoring and playmaking to complement the new pieces, and senior forward Filippa Tilliander could see an expanded role in her fourth year with the program.
Junior wing Avary Cain is also slated for a breakout, with Graves emphasizing the need for a big leap in performance.
A Deep Talent Pool
Graves believes that the combination of returning star Katie Fiso, who scored a team‑best 15.5 points per game last season, and the influx of fresh talent creates a balanced attack capable of competing with the nation's elite.