LINCOLN, Neb. (WNTZ) — After its best season in nearly a decade, the Northwestern State women’s basketball team returns to the court Monday, opening its 2025–26 campaign with a non-conference matchup against Nebraska at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

Tipoff is set for noon, and the game will stream on Big Ten Network Plus.

“We are looking forward to taking on one of the best programs in the nation,” NSU head coach Anna Nimz said. “We are going to focus on us, our team’s progress and have fun growing together on this trip. We are ready to compete at a high level and in front of a likely sold-out crowd.”

The Lady Demons aim to build on last year’s 16–16 finish that included a trip to the Women’s National Invitational Tournament – their first since 1999 – and a quarterfinal appearance in the Southland Conference Tournament.

Nine new players join the program this season, including eight transfers, while standout Vernell Atamah, the reigning Southland Conference Freshman of the Year, returns after a record-setting rookie campaign. Atamah’s 440 points and 220 rebounds each ranked third all-time among NSU freshmen.

“I think this team has the potential to do things that we haven’t done here yet,” Atamah said. “Playing Nebraska gives us a big chance to prove to everyone in our conference and everyone in the world what we’re like. I can’t wait.”

The Demons focused their recruiting on adding size, defense and perimeter shooting. Four newcomers stand at least six feet tall, including Stephie Salumu, a versatile guard-forward from South Georgia Tech who earned Co-Defensive Player of the Year honors as a freshman.

New Orleans transfer Alexis Caldeon led the Southland Conference in steals last season, earning All-Defensive honors, while Dasia Turner brings defensive experience from Philander Smith.

Offensively, NSU looks to continue its long-range success after setting a program record for made 3-pointers last year. Sharpshooters Mika Jarrett and Jay Scott join the roster after standout seasons at Moorpark College and Moberly Area CC, respectively.

Despite the roster turnover, Atamah said the team’s bond is already strong.
“Our chemistry is really good,” she said. “Off the court, we’ve developed a very strong connection, and on the court, we’re able to communicate and push each other to get better. It all started with us building that chemistry off the court.”

Following Monday’s game, the Lady Demons continue their three-game road trip with a matchup at Wichita State later this week.