The Clark College women's basketball team enters the 2025–26 season with renewed energy, depth, and determination as the Penguins look to build on last year's progress and make a strong push in the competitive NWAC South Region. Last season the Penguins finished 15-14 overall (7-9 in South Region play) and narrowly missed the playoffs by just one game. It was the first winning season since 2015-2016 for Clark, and a big step forward for the program. 

Head Coach Jesse Norris returns for his third season at the helm, emphasizing a fast-paced, defensive-minded brand of basketball that has become the program's identity. After showing flashes of excellence last winter, the Penguins are eager to turn close contests into consistent wins and reestablish themselves among the conference's top contenders. 

"We've got a group that competes every day," said Coach Norris. "The returning players have really stepped up as leaders, and our newcomers bring versatility and athleticism that will make us deeper across the board."

Leading the way for Clark is a strong returning core highlighted by Emily Peabody (Rogers High School/Spokane, WA), who emerged as one of the team's most reliable scorers and defenders last season. Peabody started every game and led the Penguins in points per game by consistently attacking the rim and getting to the foul line, where she led Clark in free throws made. The versatile 5'9 guard also showed the ability to knock down the three, as she was second on the team in three pointers made as well.  Her range and scoring were especially on display in her 37-point performance during a win at Portland last season.  In that contest, Peabody made seven of eight free throws and six of eight threes, which included the game winner at the buzzer. The 37 points was the sixth most in a single game in Clark women's basketball history. A true two-way player, Peabody was also third on the team in rebounds, second in steals, and second in blocks. For her efforts, she was named Second Team All-South Region. 

Joining Peabody in the back court is returning standout point guard Mia Hicks-Oliver (Zillah High School/Zillah, WA). Hicks-Oliver's ability to control the tempo and create for teammates gives the Penguins a dynamic presence. Hard to take off the court, Hicks-Oliver started every game and led the Penguins in minutes played last season. She was also second to Peabody in scoring at 13 points per game and second on the team in assists. Though just 5'6, her toughness and grit helped her average over six rebounds a game last season, which was good for second on the team. Her speed and quickness also make Hicks-Oliver frustrating for opposing ball handlers. Defensively she was third on the team in steals and blocks. 

"Emily and Mia are the most dynamic back court duo in the NWAC- without a doubt," explained Norris. "They can score, they defend, and they do all the little things necessary to win games. To have those two back leading our program is huge," he continued. "More than anything, they're so competitive, they work harder than anyone, and they create a culture in our program where everything is earned, and you must work extremely hard to be great. They constantly elevate others to reach their level."

The incoming recruiting class adds speed and energy to the roster, including several standout freshmen and transfer additions expected to make an immediate splash. The program's biggest impact transfer will be guard Rakyah Clayton (De La Salle North Catholic High School/Portland, OR). Coming over from Portland CC, Clayton is a very strong floor general that is known as someone who always finds ways to put her teammates in great spots to succeed. Having another point guard will also allow Hicks-Oliver to play off the ball more and act as more of a scorer. Clayton was Second Team All-State in high school and a two-time Player of the Year while helping De La Salle North Catholic to a District Championship. 

Headlining the freshman class is wing Yazmin Rios (Riverside High School/El Paso, TX). Rios was an accomplished prep player that was named First Team All-District three years in a row and earned All-Tournament Team honors. Known for her toughness, Rios will likely make her biggest impact on the defensive end of the floor for Clark. On a team that lacks size, Rios will be key in defending bigger players and cleaning up the glass. She was named to the All-Defensive Team as a prep as well.  The other key freshman is Reaiah Hall (Mannahouse Christian High School/Portland, OR). Hall was First Team All-League, an Oregon All-State honoree, and put up huge numbers for nearby Mannahouse Christian School. A pure scorer, Hall had several games of 30 or more points for the Lions and adds another offensive threat for Clark at all three levels. 

"We addressed some key needs with this recruiting class," said Norris. "Yazmin is the kind of gritty defender that we need to play the style of defense that we want, but she's also skilled enough offensively to make plays and knock down open shots. Rakyah and Reaiah are such perfect players to complement our returners. Rakyah is a playmaker, and Reaiah can flat out score. We are going to be so hard to defend when we go with our small line-up."

A special piece of this year's group of newcomers are the several multi-sport that Clark will suit up this season. Track athletes April Cruz (Fort Vancouver High School/Vancouver, WA and Breyelle Box (R.A. Long High School/Longview, WA) will bring speed, toughness, and athleticism to the team. Soccer player Haley Braae (Priest River Lamanna High School/Priest River, ID) will bring a scrappiness and team first attitude.  Norris was clearly excited about what all the different athletes will do for this year's team. 

"Our biggest strength this year is our speed and athleticism," described Norris. "Having multi-sport athletes is also huge because we need players who can fill roles, be selfless, and play team basketball. I love the makeup of this team."

Rounding out the roster will be freshman Bella Mancuso (Stevenson High School/Stevenson, WA). Still learning the college game, Mancuso will look to keep improving as the season progresses and hope to make an impact in any way possible.

Even with all the newcomers, Norris praised the group's chemistry and commitment to the program's goals: "They've bought in quickly. This team plays for each other, and that's something special."

Clark's non-conference schedule will test the Penguins early with match ups against several perennial NWAC powers, offering valuable experience before diving into league play. The focus this preseason has been on execution, rebounding, and maintaining defensive intensity for four quarters — areas the coaching staff believes will make the difference in tight games.

With a balanced mix of experience and new talent, the Penguins are poised to take a significant step forward. Fans can expect a team that plays with heart, hustle, and a never-quit attitude every time they take the court.

Clark College opens the 2025–26 season on November 19^th on the road against Spokane.  The non-league schedule includes the Columbia Basin Tournament and the NWAC Crossover before South Region play begins in January.

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