Editor’s Note: This marks the final installment in a five-part series covering the Gonzaga women’s basketball program during the summer.
Transitioning Without Ejim
For the first time in six years, Yvonne Ejim’s name will not appear on the Gonzaga women’s basketball roster. Many are speculating about how the team will adapt in the 2025-26 season without their star player. The impact Ejim had is considerable, and it will be challenging for one individual to fill her role.
A Different Landscape
The simplest way to describe the upcoming season is “different.” However, this change is not negative. Gonzaga is expected to continue its tradition of contending for both the West Coast Conference championship and a spot in the NCAA Tournament.
Ejim’s Impressive Legacy
No one player is expected to match Ejim’s remarkable statistics from last year, which include:
- Averaging nearly a double-double with 20.7 points and 9.3 rebounds per game.
- Shooting 53.1% from the field.
- Setting school and WCC career scoring records with 2,385 points.
- Achieving most career field goals (970) and rebounds (1,140).
- Being named WCC Player of the Week 16 times.
- Becoming the first WCC player to reach 2,000 points and 1,000 rebounds in a career.
- Representing Canada as a 2024 Olympic team member.
- Winning the 2024 Becky Hammon Player of the Year award.
- Receiving two-time All-American honorable mention.
- Getting drafted into the WNBA.
New Players Rising
With Ejim and Maud Huijbens leaving, Gonzaga will need several players to step up in their typical two-forward setup. Redshirt freshman Lauren Whittaker, a 6-foot-3 forward, is anticipated to make a significant impact. Although she has yet to play a game for Gonzaga, her skills impressed coaches during practice.
Roster Adjustments Ahead
Whittaker, who transferred in January 2024 and redshirted due to injuries, is expected to return for preseason practices in late September. Coach Fortier acknowledges the team will face growing pains but views this as a chance for other players to embrace new roles. “We just have to know that it’s somebody else’s turn,” she stated.
Building a Competitive Team
Fortier remains optimistic about Whittaker and other new players, including juniors McKynnlie Dalan, Taylor Smith, and Sierra Lichte. They bring valuable experience and skills that could help fill the scoring gap left by graduating players.
A Fresh Start
As Gonzaga transitions to this new roster, they have averaged 26 wins each season under Coach Fortier, who has consistently achieved success. As she enters her 12th season, the expectation is that the team will maintain its winning tradition.
