The 2025-26 season marked an historic run for Linfield women’s basketball, as the team achieved a run defined by resilience, unity and competitive fire that fueled their remarkable season. Linfield made their mark by seizing their first Northwest Conference (NWC) regular season title since 1980, finishing with a 22-4 record overall and a 15-1 record in conference play. They also claimed the program’s first Northwest Conference player of year, defensive player of the year and coach of the year honors. For all the many record-breaking milestones, this season will be remembered beyond its statistics.

The role of the players and coaches made this season memorable and shaped a legacy that will influence the program for years to come. 

“This season meant everything to me,” said Allie Mead, a junior finance major who won NWC Player of the Year. “We were able to accomplish so much and create something of value for this program.” 

Linfield had a collective drive that turned their potential into results. Their commitment and support of one another became the backbone to their success.

“This was the year that we were going to win the conference and finally put our year on the wall,” said Mead. 

Her mindset was shared alongside her teammates who had similar goals to have the year 2026 in the books. It was rooted within their belief and commitment to each other to improve each and every day, to reach the “big goal of winning conference,” as put by first team selection and senior business management major Eve Burke.

“We believed that by giving our best in practice everyday and pushing each other to improve, we could put ourselves in the best position to achieve that goal,” said Burke. 

Their mindset translated into a style of play that became unshakable. Every cheer, pass, shot and rotation reflected a group that knew what they stood for.

“We talked a lot about playing to win instead of playing not to lose,” said Miki Vermeulen, a senior data science major and NWC Defensive Player of the Year. “We said there was no target on our backs, the target is ahead of us, but within reach. We control our own destiny.”

That commitment showed on every side of the court. The Linfield defense cohesively worked together which made them difficult to break down. Their great performance lies within the whole team fueling momentum and reinforcing the trust and belief that had in each one another.

The identity from the defense reflected over to the offense. Linfield played unselfishly and created unpredictability along with strength within offensive strides. Everyone on the team stepped into moments with confidence because they empowered and elevated each other. It was basketball built on the culture and connection of the team that lived out on and off the court. 

“We did it for each other, not just ourselves. And I think that truly made the difference,” said Mead.

NWC Coach of the Year, Casey Bunn-Wilson, values the heart of this group and how this group of women have grown through every challenge and moment together. 

“They’ve faced many challenges, stayed connected and never stopped believing in each other,” Bunn-Wilson said. “What stands out most though, is how they have grown as people and how much they love playing together.”

She emphasizes core ideals that she emphasizes with the team “effort, energy and attitude.” These ideals she talks to the team about capture the culture she and the team have worked hard to build. 

“We try to create an environment where they can push each other and compete, but also empower, encourage and treat each other well,” Bunn-Wilson said.

Coach Bunn-Willson’s leadership helps shape the team identity and the players share a great understanding of what she believes in and what she coaches on. 

“She has been working so hard to build our team culture and grow the program into what she wants it to be, and it really paid off this year,” Vermeulen said. 

The whole coaching staff made a significant impact. When doubt would arise both coaches, Bunn-Wilson and Jeremy Vandenboer, reminded Vermeulen her impact went well beyond   statistics.

“They would remind me that regardless of stats, I do so many things on the floor that go unnoticed,” said Vermeulen. “That support meant a lot to me over my time here.”

Under her guidance, Linfield played with spirit and heart rooted in preparation and trust. Coach Bunn-Wilson’s message was not just heard, it was lived out through everyday action. 

“Coach Casey has always been the heart of this program. She built the foundation and the culture of this program from the ground up,” Mead said.

The influence did not stop with the coaching staff, the upperclassman embraced the ideals into the heart of the team. Setting the tone for how Linfield practiced, competed and communicated. 

“They’ve really set the tone with their work ethic and positive attitudes, they’ve built this team up since they were freshman,” said freshman and exercise science major Sydney Newby.

The culture of the team has made an outstanding impact and how they take ownership of carrying standards forward, it took root in the upperclassmen leadership that became a model for the rest of the team to follow.

“Never once did they make me feel out of place, they have truly been family to me,” Newby said.

A moment that will never be forgotten on Linfield’s home court is when Linfield clinched the NWC title. The second game the team played against Lewis and Clark, which was also senior night, holds an amazing memory none of these players will forget.

“We outright won the NWC. Something no one could take away from us,” Mead said.  

After the huge win the Linfield team was able to cut the net of the baskets that marked their historic milestone as a team.

“For us seniors, earning first place in conference and getting our year on the banner had been a long time goal,” said Burke.

The impact of this season’s accomplishments is already shaping how they will help carry the program forward. 

“It’s set a new standard for what I want to accomplish here, and I know the other freshmen are already looking forward to building and carrying on what the upperclassmen have built this season,” Newby said. 

Though the season ended in a hard fought battle in the NWC tournament, the legacy they created – rooted in unity, effort and empowerment – will carry forward for years to come. 

“This team is resilient, selfless and committed to playing for something bigger than themselves,” said Bunn-Wilson.