The Owens Express women's basketball team closed out an impressive 2025–2026 campaign with a 24-9 overall record, highlighting a season defined by growth, resilience, and postseason success. Owens carried that momentum into the NJCAA Women's Basketball Championship Tournament, finishing 3-1 and securing a fifth-place national finish.
Throughout the season, the Express established themselves as a well-rounded team, consistently delivering on both ends of the floor. Their defensive intensity and offensive execution played a key role in their success, particularly during their national tournament run, where they defeated three top-10 ranked opponents.
Head Coach Stephen Perry reflected on the team's performance and postseason experience:
"Our team represented Owens Community College extremely well at the National Tournament! Even though we are disappointed that we didn't win the National Championship, we competed very hard and went 3-1, beating the #10, #3, and #8 ranked teams. Our only loss came to the #2-ranked team, which ended up the National Runner-Up. I think this experience will help us move forward and give our returning players some motivation to work hard in the off-season as we prepare to make another run at it!"
Several players earned postseason recognition for their standout performances. DC Lanier and Liv Mullins were both named First Team All-OCCAC, while Emily Baer earned Second Team All-OCCAC honors. Mullins, Lanier, and Baer were also selected to the All-Region XII Team, highlighting their impact throughout the season.
Lanier's strong postseason play further earned her a spot on the NJCAA All-National Tournament Team, solidifying her role as a key contributor on the national stage.
Statistically, Owens was led by consistent scoring and strong rebounding efforts, with multiple players contributing in key moments. The team's ability to control the glass and maintain defensive pressure proved to be a difference-maker throughout the year.
With a fifth-place national finish and multiple individual accolades, the Express demonstrated significant improvement and set a strong foundation for the future. As the program looks ahead, the experience gained this season positions Owens women's basketball for what could be a breakout year in the 2026–2027 season.