Women's Basketball Fall Update
Reivers Women's Basketball Poised for 2025–26 Season
Council Bluffs, IA – A new season brings new energy, and the Iowa Western women's basketball team is ready to rise to the challenge as the 2025–26 campaign tips off. With a strong core of returning players and a talented group of newcomers, the Reivers enter the year determined to compete at the highest level in Region XI and beyond.
Head coach Zach Loll is excited about the mix of experience and fresh talent.
"This group has the chance to be really special," Coach Loll said. "Our returners know what it takes, and our newcomers have already bought into our culture. We expect to play with toughness, pace, and togetherness every night."
Key Returners
The Reivers bring back six players from last year's roster, including Sydney Donaldson, Savanah Appel, and Aniyah Howard who will anchor the lineup with experience and leadership. Tonia Matthews, Jasmine Carter, and Tiana Johnson also return as solid players for the Reivers.
Impact Newcomers
Joining the veteran core is a group of exciting newcomers, highlighted by Kailynne Small, a transfer from Southwestern Illinois College, Hadley Meyer, from Koshkonogo, MO, Sophie Sarratt, Rogers, AR, Kaity Driskell, Colorado Springs, CO, Gracie James, Seminonle, FL, Assata Lytle, Jade Lewis, Reagan Palmer, Bra'Ni Jackson, Lilly Stobbe, and Jordyn Rohlfsen all Omaha area players and Grace Albertsen, Harlan, IA. Their versatility and athleticism give the Reivers added depth and balance missing from the team last year. Coach Loll believes the class has the ability to contribute immediately.
"Our newcomers have stepped in with confidence," Loll adds. "They've raised the level of competition in practice and will make us better every day."
The Road Ahead
Iowa Western's non-conference schedule will challenge the team early, preparing the Reivers for the always-tough Region 11 slate. Key matchups include State Fair CC and Allen Co CC that will test the Reivers' growth and resilience.
The Reivers open the season on October 31st against Grand View JV at Reiver Arena. Tip-off is scheduled for 5:00 pm.
Building the Standard
Beyond the X's and O's, Coach Loll and the Reivers are focused on building a culture of accountability, unity, relentless effort, and embracing the journey of the season.
"We want Reiver Nation to be proud of how we play and who we are," Coach Loll emphatically says. "This team has the chance to do something special together."