A Strategic Mix of Experience and Youth
Kennesaw State women’s basketball head coach Tianni Kelly has finalized the first roster for the 2026‑27 season, bringing in ten new players to complement the four returning letterwinners.
The incoming class features a blend of experience and potential, with four Division I transfers, two junior‑college standouts, two true freshmen and a pair of preferred walk‑ons who have already proven themselves in high‑school competition.
Among the newcomers, Tracey Bershers arrives with a career tally of over 500 points and 200 rebounds after stints at Minnesota and UAB, while Lamarah Cleaves earned Second Team All‑MACCC honors at Jones College and helped Shelton State finish a 30‑4 season before reaching the NJCAA Division I quarterfinals.
Uliana Kolesnyk, a member of the German National Team, adds front‑court depth, and Nyjae Malikali‑El, who averaged 12.8 points and 5.4 steals at Pikesville High School, brings defensive intensity. Kayla Sullivan, a Valparaiso transfer, earned NJCAA Division I All‑America Third Team honors, and Riley Talbert contributed 44.4 % shooting in 25 games for UAB.
Camryn Register and Cameron Wade, both decorated high‑school athletes, round out the group, while the returners from the 2025‑26 squad provide continuity. Coach Kelly expressed confidence that the mix of talent will position the Owls to compete strongly in the upcoming season.