After a challenging season last year, the St. Olaf Women’s Basketball team entered this season’s opener with renewed energy and identity. On Tuesday, Nov. 11, St. Olaf played against Crown College, crushing the Polars with a 56-47 victory on the road in St. Bonafacius, Minn.

In an interview with The Olaf Messenger, Bree Wilkerson ’27 shared her perspective on her experience with the team so far. She explains how the biggest shift heading into this season is a strengthened team culture that is rooted in genuine connection.

“Our biggest [asset] is team culture,” Wilkerson said. “Creating a team that supports each other on and off the court is really big for us this year.”

That support has been intentionally built through their game nights, a fall break cooking competition, study sessions, and post-practice dinners — all of which are crucial moments in shaping their bonds beyond basketball.

“It just makes us more connected as people and not necessarily as just basketball players and teammates,” Wilkerson said.

Leadership has also taken a new direction. With no seniors and five first-years, the team has embraced a unified approach.

“A lot of people on the team are stepping up … It’s coming from everybody,” Wilkerson said.

Wilkerson spoke on their biggest challenge this year, but how it is also a point of potential.

“We’re a really young team … trying to understand what we want our team to look like,” she said. Still, she looks ahead to the long-term benefit of how the full roster will continue to grow for another year.

“I love the team and how it’s looking,” Wilkerson said. “Getting to have this whole year, and then again next year, without anybody leaving is super exciting.”

Women’s Basketball will face Central College on Saturday, Nov. 22 at 1 p.m. in the Bob Gelle Court at Skoglund Center. Come support these incredible Oles.