Mixing talent, speed and toughness, Moraine Valley women’s basketball has the recipe for success

The 2026-27 Moraine Valley Community College women's basketball team might not have the exact collection of region and conference champs as last year, but incoming players may provide the ingredients the team needs to be feared on the court.

With some powerhouse players, including an All-American, last year's Cyclones dominated the conference and region before competing at nationals. Although most of the players graduated and transferred on, four are returning along with some talented recruits and transfers ready to reap more championships.

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"We have a great group, but we're just young," said Head Coach Delwyn Jones, entering his 27th year leading the women's basketball program. "We have the talent, and we know what to do to get them where we need them. The coaches just need to guide them, but we're in a good place."

The returning sophomores who should make an impact include All-Conference first team 5-9 forward Trajany Walker (Naperville North), 6-0 forward/center Kyziah Lewis (Evergreen Park), 5-9 forward Danielle Dempsey (Oak Lawn) and 5-5 guard Miracle Shelton (Richards). Walker, Lewis and Dempsey each played major minutes in the region playoffs and at nationals while Shelton has seen great improvement.

Several transfers should add to the veteran presence, including 5-10 forward Jasmine McCullough (Rantoul Township), from Danville Area Community College whose versatility allows her to block shots and shoot three-pointers, and 5-8 guard Alyssa Morris (Riverside Brookfield), who played a major role at Rock Valley College and brings firepower and high energy to the court, reminiscent of last year's All-American Jadea Johnson.

A solid incoming crew of freshmen also should make a difference. Nevaeh Wright (Joliet Central) is a dynamic 5-6 point guard who can score from the three-point line and is one of the best ball handlers in the region, according to Jones. She played Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) ball with Makayla Triplett, a 5-8 forward from Kenwood Academy, who is strong, fast, athletic and fundamentally sound. Christa Olson (5-9/forward/Andrew) is another versatile player who is strong around the basket and can shoot threes. Khamiaya Larry (5-9/forward/Plainfield North) is a skilled athlete who can finish well around the basket and is a tough defender. Amaya Watts (6-0/center/Hillcrest) is a tremendous rebounder who continues to improve her shot blocking. Khyla Whitfield (5-8/Thornton Fractional South) is another forward who happens to be the fastest on the team and should help on defense. Although not a freshman, Teagan Krzystof (5-6/guard/Oak Lawn) played Cyclones softball in the spring and is eager to show her speed, high basketball IQ and shooting skills with this crew.

"This is one of the best freshmen classes I've had in a long time. This group is deep, and I'm very happy with that," Jones noted. "If we stay focused and on task, other teams should fear us."

With their speed and ability to take up space on the court, the Cyclones should cause problems for other teams on the perimeter, Jones explained. They also have enough strong defensive players to avoid domination under the basket.

"On defense we have Dobermans – they're vicious out there, aggressive and tough. We also can shoot the ball, get to the basket by driving and have players who can score in the post. They are all the ingredients we need. The coaches just need to put it together," Jones added. "I think we'll challenge for conference and region. The conference will be tough, but I'm excited to see where we fit in. We have enough talent to compete."

The Cyclones open their season on the road on Oct. 30 at Madison College. Their home opener is Wednesday, Nov. 4, 5:15 p.m., against Parkland College. For updates on Cyclones Athletics, visit mvcyclones.com.