Southern Utah forward Ava Uhrich earned a spot on the Big Sky’s 2026-27 preseason All-Conference team as the Thunderbirds prepare for their return to the league. SUU was picked fifth in both the coaches’ and media polls, with Montana State favored in each. Uhrich, coming off a standout junior season, is a key part of a team returning most of its roster.

By the Numbers
  • Uhrich averaged 14.6 points and 9.9 rebounds per game last season.
  • She started all 32 games, earned First-Team All-WAC honors and recorded 11 double-doubles.
  • SUU was picked fifth with 67 points in the coaches’ poll and 173 in the media poll.
  • The Thunderbirds return 10 players, including four of five starters.
Yes, But

Fifth-place preseason rankings signal respect, but they are only a forecast—not a measure of what SUU can accomplish. Coach Tracy Mason said the team has larger goals than its poll position.

Bottom Line

Uhrich gives SUU an established force on the boards as it re-enters the Big Sky, while a largely returning roster offers a foundation to aim higher than fifth.