New era begins for Emporia State women’s basketball under MJ Baker

KANSAS CITY, MO (KSNT)- Emporia State women’s basketball is opening a new chapter this season under first-year head coach MJ Baker, stepping into a program looking to reset expectations.

In the 2025-26 MIAA preseason polls, the Lady Hornets were picked 10th by the media and 11th by the coaches. They enter the season after a 10-19 campaign in 2024-25, but have pieces in place to surprise. 

Baker is looking to push a faster, more fluid style. At Media Day, she emphasized energy, transition play, and building a competitive identity from day one.

“Everyday we’re focused on getting better and the girls are really buying in,” Baker told 27 Sports. “I’m not sure what the wins and losses will look like but I know we’ll get one percent better everyday.

One of the key returners is Gracie Gilpin, who averaged 12.5 points per game last season, hitting 38.2% from three.  Alongside her, Makenzie McDaniel, Elizabeth Tjaden, and Macey Gandee bring experience and scoring depth. 

“We’re going to be playing a fast paced system which I think the fans will love,” Gilpin said. “She (Baker) loves the fast pace and you’ll see that with us.”

Baker brings in multiple transfers, including Kaitlyn Sanders who has played under Baker before.

“It’s a bit of adjusting so far for our team with the new system,” Sanders said. “Once we get it going we’re going to be in a good spot.”

Emporia State opens the season at the D2 Central Region Showcase from Nov. 14-15 in St. Joseph Mo.

The Hornets will play Wayne State College on Nov. 14 followed by Minnesota State-Moorhead on Nov. 15.

With a new system and returning talent, the Lady Hornets have reason for optimism as they begin the Baker era.

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