Kalamazoo, Mich. — This season, the Western Michigan University women’s basketball team has a lot riding on just 10 healthy players. As head coach Kate Achter builds her first squad, the team, which finished last season 12-18 overall and 8-10 in the Mid-American Conference, is gearing up to open the season on November 3 at Appalachian State.
The Broncos also have matchups lined up against Michigan State, Indiana, and Ohio State in the Big Ten conference. The roster features three seniors—De’Ahna Richardson, Alli Carlson, and Ariana Wilkes—a junior, Nile Muguira Orbe, three sophomores, and three freshmen. With limited depth, coach Achter knows they need to maximize every practice.
“With just 10 players, we can’t afford long practices,” Achter explains. “I have to teach more effectively. This lets us create more focused practice film for players to learn from. We’ll concentrate on keeping everyone in shape.”
Carlson, one of the senior players, views the challenge as an opportunity. “With a smaller roster, everyone has a shot to contribute. We have to take care of our bodies off the court,” she says. Multi-position play will be crucial given their limited numbers.
Carlson and Truillo are the point guards. Last season, Carlson averaged nearly 33 minutes per game, scoring about 8.4 points and collecting 3.4 rebounds. “Alli has an incredible tempo and urgency,” Achter praises. “She embraces challenges.”
Truillo, hailing from Spain, adds strategic value. “Irene knows how to use ball screens effectively, which we value greatly,” Achter notes. “She can score and involve her teammates.”
Other players include Orbe, Starks, Harness, and Flynn, all of whom will fill various roles. Harness brings experience from last season, while Orbe is recovering from an ACL injury but showing promise.
On the inside, Richardson, Bolds, Dibarboure, and Wilkes will bring their size and skills to the game. Bolds, who previously led the team in blocks, and Richardson, who saw significant playing time, are ready to step up.
While some teams face struggles with playing time, Achter believes this roster setup is unique. “Everyone will get their chance; it’s up to them to grab it. You can’t be held back here,” she says.
The players are dialed in on what championship-level basketball takes. “It’s not just about sprinting through the season,” Achter explains, adding that quick transitions to different plays will be crucial, especially when first options fail.
With their unique challenge, the team is stepping into the season with confidence and determination. “We’re focused on teamwork and intensity,” Carlson adds.
The Broncos are set to tip off their season Monday at 6:30 p.m. at the Holmes Convocation Center, with the game available on ESPN+ and live stats on wmubroncos.com.
In a time where many college teams face roster turnover and depth issues, the Broncos have a clear advantage: they know their playing time is guaranteed. They’ll be ready to compete fiercely this season.
For a deeper dive into collegiate sports trends, check out this NCAA report on roster management and player development.
