By: Devin Jones
The Joliet Junior College women's basketball team, led by head coach Shaun Sanderson, is entering the 2025–26 season with renewed energy and depth after last year's remarkable run to the NJCAA Division III National Tournament.
Despite competing with only seven players, the "Magnificent Seven" defied the odds and put JJC women's basketball back on the national map.
This season, the Wolves aim to write a new chapter while honoring that legacy.
"We want this year's team to determine their own identity while doing it the Joliet way," said coach Sanderson. "There is an excitement in the air as we complete our successful preseason. These young ladies continue to improve their confidence and skills daily. They are learning how to play this game of basketball at a high level and are developing a work ethic which can be the recipe for success."
The Wolves return sophomore guard Demi Page, along with Jazlynn Foster and Joyce Tua-Link, both guard/forward sophomores expected to rejoin the team in December. They will be joined by a talented group of newcomers, including guards Sam Casanova and Sarai Carter, as well as dynamic point guards Samaiyya Williams and Na'Vayuh Junior, a duo expected to "turn heads" this season.
Sanderson praised his experienced coaching staff, which includes three former JJC players — Martha Smith, Ashley Clemmons, and Dasia Norris — who bring firsthand knowledge of the program's expectations. Assistant coaches Monica Barefield and Brad Price round out a staff dedicated to instilling competitiveness and discipline.
"Day in and day out, we expect this group to challenge one another and compete," Sanderson said. "We want their best competition to come from their teammates in practice."
The team's culture and work ethic have been key focuses this preseason.
"Having a facility like we have starts the process of thinking of being a champion," Sanderson added. "Our staff helps our student-athletes experience a lifetime of memories in their sport."
The players share that same confidence and excitement. Page said, "This season should be a good one. We have a lot of young talent mixed with experienced players. With hard work, determination, and trust, we will complete our goal."
Jazlynn Foster echoed that optimism: "With the numbers we have now compared to last year, we are faster and more aggressive. Our style of play is definitely different. It should be fun to watch us play."
With a deeper roster, experienced leadership, and a driven coaching staff, the JJC women's basketball team looks poised to make another statement — and keep the program's national spotlight shining bright.
JJC opens its season on November 1 at 1 p.m. at home against McHenry County Community College.
