Minnesota State Moorhead opens its 2026-27 women’s basketball season with three games at the CWU D2 Tip-Off Classic in Ellensburg, Washington. The Dragons face host Central Washington on Friday, MSU Billings on Saturday and No. 21 Western Washington on Sunday.

By the Numbers
  • MSUM went 14-14 last season and finished seventh in the NSIC preseason coaches’ poll.
  • Junior guard Ashton Safranski averaged 10.6 points, nearly 6 rebounds and 5 assists per game last season, while recording 66 steals.
  • The Dragons return 12 players and added 6 newcomers: 3 transfers and 3 freshmen.
Yes, But

The Dragons have a winning 3-0 record against MSU Billings, but have lost their previous meetings with both Central Washington and Western Washington.

State of Play
  • MSUM was picked to finish third in the NSIC North Division.
  • Safranski is the Dragons’ featured player to watch after earning All-NSIC Second Team honors as a sophomore.
  • Coach Karla Nelson says defense and rebounding will be key for a veteran team looking to make its mark.
What’s Next

The three-game weekend begins Friday at 3 p.m. against Central Washington, followed by MSU Billings at 11 a.m. Saturday and Western Washington at 7 p.m. Sunday. Live video and stats will be available through MSUM’s website; GNAC Network video requires a paid subscription.

Bottom Line

MSUM begins the season with an immediate test against three Pacific Northwest opponents, including a ranked team—an early chance to see whether its veteran roster can deliver on its defensive and rebounding priorities.