Year one of the Coach Larry Vickers era is in the books, and while the record might not have met every preseason expectation, the blueprint for the future of Auburn Women’s Basketball is officially being drawn.
Cultivating the Vickers Identity
Coming over from Norfolk State, Coach Vickers stayed true to his reputation for building “disruptive defensive teams”. The Tigers were active in passing lanes and made life difficult for SEC opponents. However, the team struggled with a lack of size on the interior and inconsistent offensive efficiency, often facing zones that dared them to shoot from the outside.
Key Roster Highlights
- The Returners: Fans can breathe a sigh of relief as Kaitlyn Duhon and Ja’Mia Harris have both declared for an additional year of eligibility. Duhon’s defensive versatility and Harris’s presence as a big guard will be the cultural anchors for next year’s squad.
- Khady Leye: Playing center at only 6’2″ for much of the year, Lay was a warrior in the paint. Fans are eager to see her move to her natural “4” position next year if the Tigers can bolster their frontcourt.
- The Freshmen & The Portal: While the team loses leading scorer Harasum Kulibaly to the portal, the arrival of two talented true freshmen guards offers hope for better perimeter shooting and basketball acumen.
Looking Ahead to 2026-27
The recipe for success next season is clear: Size and Shooting. If Coach Vickers can utilize the transfer portal to find a true post presence to supplement a healthy Quanirah Montague and land a primary point guard to settle the offense, the Tigers will be a force to be reckoned with.
The culture is being built, the defensive identity is there, and with a few more pieces in the puzzle, Auburn Women’s Basketball is ready to ascend.