Winona State opens its 2026-27 women’s basketball season in Honolulu at the Hoops in Hawaii Classic, facing Lubbock Christian on Oct. 30. The Warriors, who return 11 players from last season’s 17-13 team, will play either Hawaii Pacific or Western Colorado next.

By the Numbers
  • Oct. 30-Nov. 1: Hoops in Hawaii Classic dates.
  • 12 a.m. CT Oct. 30: Winona State’s tipoff against Lubbock Christian.
  • 17-13 overall, 13-9 in the NSIC: Winona State’s record last season.
  • 11 returning players and 3 newcomers: Winona State’s roster changes.
  • 23 wins last season: Lubbock Christian’s record; the team reached the NCAA Division II tournament.
Yes, But

Winona State returns much of its roster, including senior Vivica Bretton and two other double-digit scorers, but was picked ninth in the NSIC preseason poll. Lubbock Christian brings back 10 players from a 23-win tournament team, setting up a challenging season opener.

State of Play
  • The matchup is the first between Winona State and Lubbock Christian.
  • Winona State’s second opponent will be Hawaii Pacific or Western Colorado.
  • The Warriors are seeking a return to the NSIC Tournament after reaching the quarterfinals last season.
Bottom Line

Winona State begins the season with an early test against an experienced NCAA tournament team—and an opportunity to gauge how its returning core measures up.