October 29, 2025
Waxahachie, TX — The Nelson University Lady Lions are ready to roar into a new season filled with faith and family. After a 2024-25 campaign that reflected the heart and character of the Nelson community, the women's basketball program returns to the hardwood with a renewed purpose and a deeper sense of unity.
The Lady Lions open their 2025-26 season at home on Friday, October 31 at 5:00 PM, hosting Hesston College inside the Sheaffer Center as part of the Nelson University Basketball Classic.
In the 2024-25 season, Nelson's women's basketball team captured attention not only for their grit on the court but for the way they embodied the program's foundational values. Their energy resonated across campus, inspiring peers and fans alike with their perseverance.
The trio of Wendy Clemmons, Kate Miller, and Ashley Gonzalez were each recognized by the Sooner Athletic Conference (SAC) for their impact throughout the season, marking a year of both growth and recognition for the program.
SAC Preseason Outlook
The Lady Lions enter the 2025-26 campaign ranked No. 9 in the SAC Women's Basketball Preseason Poll, with a goal to rise quickly in the standings and prove that their hunger and preparation can compete with the best in the league.
2025 SAC Women's Basketball Preseason Poll
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Langston – 121 (11)
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Texas Wesleyan – 96 (1)
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John Brown – 87
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College of the Ozarks – 86
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Mid-America Christian – 83
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Science & Arts – 81
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Wayland Baptist – 72
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Oklahoma City – 50
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Nelson – 47
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Southwestern Christian – 31
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Panhandle State – 19
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Central Christian – 15
Notable Returners
Kate Miller – The steady forward anchors the Lady Lions inside with toughness and consistency. Averaging 11 points and 5 rebounds per game, Miller's ability to score in the paint and crash the boards earned her Honorable Mention All-Conference honors. Expect her veteran presence to set the tone once again this season.
Ashley Gonzalez – The freshman phenom returns after an impressive debut year that saw her earn SAC All-Freshman Team honors. Averaging 1.5 made threes per game, Gonzalez provides instant offense and spacing for the Lady Lions with her confident shooting stroke and fearless approach.
Notable Newcomers
Alyssa O'Malley (5'10, Wing, Texas A&M–Kingsville) – A versatile two-way wing who brings NCAA Division II experience, O'Malley appeared in all 30 games last season, starting eight. She totaled 61 points, 67 rebounds, 29 assists, 13 steals, and 5 blocks, including a breakout 13-point, 7-rebound performance against Angelo State. Her length, IQ, and maturity make her a key addition to the rotation.
Abby Boyce (F, Wolfforth, TX / Southern Nazarene Transfer) – A relentless rebounder and scoring presence, Boyce is a double-double threat every night. At Frenship High School, she was First Team All-District 2-6A, a 1,000-point scorer, and part of the exclusive 1,000 Rebound Club. She also holds her program's career and single-season rebounding records bringing elite toughness to Nelson's frontcourt.
Presley Wheeler (G, Lubbock, TX) – A sharpshooting guard with deep range and confidence, Wheeler impressed fans by winning the Nelson Basketball Midnight Madness Three-Point Contest. Her shooting ability adds instant spacing and momentum-shifting potential.
Kora Huff (6'3 F, Colorado Christian Transfer) – A skilled and imposing interior player, Huff brings size, touch, and rim protection. Her length and fundamentals will immediately strengthen Nelson's interior presence and rebounding corps.
From the Head Coach
"This season is about setting the standard — every practice, every possession, every play," said Head Coach Michael Sons. "We're not chasing anyone; we're chasing our potential. Our strength comes from our unity, and every player, every role, and every rep matters.
This group is hungry — not just to win, but to grow — and in everything we do, we want to reflect Christ. When we play for each other and for Him, we're capable of something truly special."
Season Opener
- Nelson University vs. Hesston College
- Friday, October 31 | 5:00 PM
- Sheaffer Center – Waxahachie, TX
- Nelson University Basketball Classic
Fans are encouraged to arrive early and pack the Sheaffer Center as the Lady Lions begin their new journey.
Nelson University (formerly SAGU) is a private Christian university, established in 1927 by P.C. Nelson. The University is located 30 minutes south of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex in Waxahachie, Texas, and offers more than 70 associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees on campus or online. For more information, visit www.nelson.edu or by calling 1-888-YES-NELSON.
