The Mizzou women’s basketball team, under second-year coach Kellie Harper, is gearing up for a season filled with high hopes and aspirations. Senior star Grace Slaughter, in her fourth year with the Tigers, is determined to lead the team to its first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2019. With the field now expanded to 76 teams, Slaughter is excited about the potential for success.
Slaughter expressed, “Making the NCAA tournament in my last year would be super special,” acknowledging the pride it would bring to the university, coaches, and team.
The roster has seen significant changes, featuring eight new players, including five freshmen, which means eight of the 12 are underclassmen. Tanyuel Welch adds experience as a fifth-year player, but she is still acclimating to the Mizzou culture. The team’s stability and leadership are rooted in the experiences of Slaughter, Averi Kroenke, and Abbey Schreacke, who have been vital to fostering the team’s spirit.
Harper emphasized the importance of these three leaders, appreciating their experience and trustworthiness within the locker room. They have built a strong bond over the years, supporting one another through both successes and challenges.
For Kroenke, this year is particularly emotional as she returns to the court after recovering from injuries—first a foot injury and most recently an ACL tear. She reflected on the difficulties of her recovery, especially the pain and struggles she faced along the way. However, with the support of her teammates and coaches, including Harper, who has faced similar challenges, she persevered and is back in action.
Schreacke, now in her fourth season, recalls her early days and aims to guide the newcomers through their fast-paced experiences, focusing on maintaining a supportive environment.
As one of the team’s best shooters, Schreacke stands out with her consistent performance. Slaughter trusts her for her bluntness and ability to lead, echoing the sentiments of the team’s camaraderie.
With ambitions of playing professional basketball, Slaughter is setting a high bar for both her personal goals and the team’s aspirations. After a year of adjustment under Coach Harper, she feels equipped to guide the team and maintain high standards.
The Mizzou women’s basketball team is poised to open their season against Howard on November 2, with an exhibition against Lincoln set for October 29. The excitement builds as the Tigers prepare to make their mark this season.
