Kansas State Women's Basketball: A Test of Patience for Coach Mittie
It's a familiar story in sports: a team experiences a high, then faces a period of rebuilding. For Kansas State women's basketball, fresh off their deepest NCAA Tournament run since 2002, the upcoming season presents a unique challenge. This year, the Wildcats are navigating a significant roster overhaul, and it's already testing the patience of Head Coach Jeff Mittie.
Mittie's team looks vastly different from the one that achieved Sweet Sixteen success last season, led by stars like Ayoka Lee, Serena Sundell, and Temira Poindexter. The current roster is exceptionally young, featuring just one senior, two juniors, and a host of underclassmen. This youth movement means Mittie is essentially starting from scratch.
But here's where it gets controversial... Mittie's patience is being tested early. He emphasizes that effort and communication are "non-negotiables." The challenge lies in fostering team chemistry and figuring out the best player combinations, a task that falls squarely on his shoulders.
In the Big 12 Women's Basketball Preseason Coaches' Poll, the Wildcats were projected to finish seventh, and no players were selected for the preseason team. This ranking reflects the uncertainty surrounding the team's potential.
The team will likely rely on Taryn Sides as the primary playmaker, who holds the fourth-best 3-point percentage in school history. Transfers Tess Heal (Stanford) and Izela Arenas (Louisville) are expected to bolster the backcourt, while Jenessa Cotton (Duke) and Ramiya White (Virginia Tech) will add depth to the frontcourt. Adding to the excitement is true freshman Jordan Speiser, a highly-touted five-star prospect ranked No. 16 nationally by ESPN.
"We're really inconsistent now, which is to be expected," Mittie admits. He's still experimenting with lineups, seeking the right combinations that work well together. The focus is on the team's growth from October to March, and Mittie believes the potential for significant improvement is high.
Mittie has expressed excitement about "moments" during the preseason, but he's seeking consistent, extended periods of strong play. Determining the optimal lineup is expected to be an ongoing process, potentially extending into the regular season.
And this is the part most people miss... The key to success for this young team lies in patience. Mittie acknowledges the players' dedication, often finding them in the gym. He recognizes they sometimes overthink, and he aims to simplify their approach while providing the necessary support for their development.
What do you think? Will Coach Mittie be able to mold this young team into a contender? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
