Many challenges lie ahead for the 08-09 MNU women's basketball team as they enter their first year in the NAIA's Division I. Having made it to the D2 National Tournament for three consecutive years, the Pioneers will be hard-pressed to finish their season in Jaskson, TN this season. Coach Olin will be without his dynamic post tandem of Jenna Matson and Ashley Patterson, who have led MNU to a 58-15 record over the last two seasons. Matson graduated and Patterson's injuries have forced her to spend her senior year on the sidelines. Adding to the challenge is the toughest pre-season schedule yet for MNU and the presence of several talented and veteran teams in the HAAC this season.

But, according to Coach Olin, there is definitely hope for the Pioneers, principally because of two factors: the improvement of several of the returning players, and the talent of the newcomers. The huge hole left by the departed post players will be filled in part by 6-1 junior Bethany Rexroth. Senior Taylor Ford and sophomore Heather Cunard, who both started at the wing last year, will move up to the post this year. Cunard started early last year until a torn ACL ended her season in January, and Ford started the rest of the way. Junior Rashell Yockey, who missed last season due to a torn ACL in October, will add depth to the Pioneers at post.

Seniors Lindsay Boss and JoNel Henning, plus juniors Allison Bundren and Kristin Malone, will return to give MNU depth and experience in the back court. Henning set the MNU 3-point shooting record last season and also led the Pioneers in assists. Boss was MNU's starting point guard but will move to her more familiar wing position this season. Super sub Malone and backup point guard Bundren will improve as they enter their second season on the Pioneer varsity.

Many talented newcomers have joined the MNU wbb program, and three in particular could play key roles on this year's varsity squad. Junior transfer Bethany Schwab, who set the standard for 3-point shooting at Johnson County Community College last year, will add some long-range firepower to the Pioneer attack this season. Freshman Brooke Young should see considerable time at the point guard and freshman Amy Green will showcase her considerable talents both at the post and on the perimeter.

So despite the key losses, the Pioneers nevertheless have plenty of reason to be optimistic as they enter this season. MNU should have enough talent and depth to play the up-tempo style they love to play. But can they rebound? Can they defend? Can they take care of the ball? Can the inexperienced freshmen make a smooth transition to college ball? Can the returning players successfully fill the giant gaps left by Matson and Patterson? Time will tell. In the meantime, everyone is working very hard to have another 25-win season at MNU and culminate the year with yet another National Tournament appearance.