Kansas Wesleyan coach Harper Taylor is counting on a year of hard-earned experience—and a versatile, guard-heavy roster—to build on last season’s late push into the KCAC postseason tournament. Senior leaders Odessa Ozuna and Izzy McCool, along with sophomore Anna Jueneman, headline a team Taylor believes can compete with anyone. The Coyotes open Tuesday against MidAmerica Nazarene.

By the Numbers
  • KWU finished 14-15 overall and 11-11 in KCAC play, placing eighth.
  • Ozuna averaged 13.3 points, 5.6 rebounds and 4.9 assists per game.
  • McCool averaged 12.8 points and a team-best 5.8 rebounds per game.
  • Jueneman averaged 9.8 points and led the team with 52 steals.
Yes, But

The Coyotes showed they could recover from adversity and compete in close games, but turnovers remain a key concern. Taylor also expects several newcomers and developing players to take on bigger roles, so the team’s new style will need time to come together.

State of Play
  • KWU plans to play with more guards, push the pace in transition and use its roster’s positional versatility.
  • Ozuna is expected to handle most of the point-guard duties, with Annie Dawson and freshman Keimara Marshall among the potential backup options.
  • The home opener is Nov. 18 against Sterling.
What's Next

The Coyotes begin their season Tuesday at MidAmerica Nazarene. Early tests will show how quickly the new rotation adapts and whether KWU can protect the ball while playing at a faster pace.

Bottom Line

KWU has experienced leadership and multiple potential contributors, but turning last season’s late momentum into sustained progress will depend on disciplined play and how well its new, guard-heavy approach clicks.