UT Tyler opens its 2026-27 women’s basketball season at the DII Tip-Off Classic in Ellensburg, Washington, facing Montana State Billings, Western Washington and host Central Washington. The Patriots bring back 11 players—including key all-conference performers—after a 22-win season and another NCAA Tournament appearance.

By the Numbers
  • UT Tyler went 22-11 overall and 16-4 in Lone Star Conference play in 2025-26.
  • The Patriots are ranked No. 24 in the preseason WBCA Coaches Poll and were picked third in the LSC poll, with 9 first-place votes and 755 points.
  • UT Tyler returns 11 players and adds 4 newcomers.
  • Montana State Billings finished 20-15; Western Washington, 25-8; and Central Washington, 25-7.
Yes, But

The Patriots have a strong returning core, but the opening field includes three proven opponents: Montana State Billings won the GNAC Tournament, Western Washington claimed the GNAC regular-season title, and Central Washington reached the NCAA Division II Sweet Sixteen.

State of Play
  • UT Tyler has made four straight NCAA Tournament appearances and was picked third in the LSC for a second consecutive season.
  • Senior guard Polina Latysheva, an All-LSC Second Team selection, was named an LSC Player to Watch.
  • The three tournament opponents were all 2025-26 NCAA postseason teams; Western Washington is ranked No. 21, while Central Washington is receiving votes.
What's Next

The Patriots begin the season against Montana State Billings, Western Washington and Central Washington at Nicholson Arena, opening with an early test against a field featuring conference champions and NCAA postseason contenders.

Bottom Line

UT Tyler starts with experience, national recognition and a challenging tournament slate—an early opportunity to show whether last season’s postseason consistency can carry into a new campaign.