BUENA VISTA, Va. - After a year filled with records and accolades, the offseason is finally over for the Southern Virginia University women's basketball team.
Less than two weeks before opening day, the USA South released its preseason poll for the 2025-2026 season, and the Knights find themselves in a familiar spot.
For the second consecutive season, Southern Virginia was picked by the coaches of the conference to finish atop the league standings, garnering nine first-place votes. They're seeking a third straight tournament championship, and the fourth in program history.
The other finalists from last season, Brevard, finished second in the poll while Methodist was the only other team to receive a first-place vote. The Knights have amassed 62 wins in just four seasons since joining the USA South, well ahead of the second best team during that span.
In six seasons at the helm, Head Coach Lynette Schroeder has led her team to three NCAA Tournament appearances. The Knights suffered a narrow loss to Bates in the first round to end their 2024-2025 season.
While the team saw significant roster turnover prior to the fall, they still return four starters, including All-Region guard Abigail Snyder, and the reigning USA South Defensive Player of the Year, Aysia Foster. Maria Savvun and Ruth Kempler are other returning starters who form a key leadership group.
The Knights have been one of the best defensive teams in the region for a number of years, holding opponents to under an average of 50 points just a season ago. They also totaled over 100 blocks, 55 of which belonged to Foster.
Looking Ahead
Southern Virginia's season kicks off with visit to the WCBA Preseason #6, Washington and Lee on Wednesday, November 12th. They'll host Guilford College on Saturday, November 15th, at 7:00 PM for opening night in Knight Arena.
For the most up-to-date information and details on the team, visit knightathletics.com and follow @knight_wbb on Instagram.
