https://www.gocsucougars.com/news/2026/8...edule.aspx

Coach Irvin has put together a very favorable schedule for the Cougars. They have a surprising number of home games, and a good number of very winnable non conference games.

I’m not sure the level of talent she brought in or who is returning, but with the way the season ended last year, this could be a fun year for the Cougar women. If Aiyanna Culver is back and healthy, the Cougars will likely be a factor in the NEC. I believe there was just one senior on last years squad, but these days roster changes are too wild to guess at so I’ll wait and see.

I wouldn’t be surprised to see them reach a win total rarely seen at CSU.

The NEC women’s poll is out.

https://necsports.com/news/2026/9/24/WBB..._2627.aspx

The Cougars are picked 7th. I expected they would be around 5th, so I’m a little surprised. I think Coach Irwin is building a solid base here and still expect them to finish near the top half.

But, the season is virtually here, so we won’t have to wait long to find out.

The women lost their opener 106-69 in Normal.

Illinois State won 24 games last season, including 4 WNIT wins where they made it to the championship game, and are picked second in the Valley.

WBB built a 25 point half time lead over visiting Mississippi Valley and cruised in the second half, earning their first win of the season.

83-62 Courgars.

https://www.gocsucougars.com/news/2026/1...pener.aspx