McPherson, Kan. — Central Christian College of Kansas Women's Basketball Head Coach Brad Willems and All-Sooner Athletic Conference (SAC) Junior Guard Chloe Clevenger spoke at the SAC Preseason Media Day Press Conference, sharing excitement about the Tigers' growth and outlook for the 2025–26 season.

Despite a 3–25 record last year, Willems says the team's competitiveness and commitment stood out. "Our record didn't show it, but we competed better in 2024–25 than we did the previous season," Willems said. "We were in a lot of games and just ran out of gas. This offseason we focused on ball handling and getting quicker — and it's paid off. We had a really good summer and preseason. I like the direction we're going."

Willems emphasized that everything begins in practice. "If we compete in practice, it makes games easier. We've brought in players who make each day more competitive. I like the energy and the culture we're building."

Returning four of five starters, Central Christian brings back several key pieces, including Clevenger, who led the Tigers in scoring (15.4 ppg), rebounds (6.0), assists (4.2), and steals (2.4) last season. She was one of only two SAC players ranked among conference leaders in four of five major statistical categories.

Also returning are Charmayne Marshall (11.0 ppg, 3.9 rpg, 3.0 apg), Cristina Laudan (7.1 ppg, 4.5 rpg, 1.5 bpg), and Kylee Jones, who rejoins the team after a year away and previously averaged 10.4 points and 5.7 rebounds per game.

Newcomers expected to make an impact include C'nyah Williams, a transfer from the University of St. Thomas, and freshmen Madison George (San Angelo, TX) and Kenedi Griffin (Red Oak, TX).
"C'nyah Williams will be a name people will get used to hearing in a lot of ways," Willems said. "We also have Madison and Kenedi, who both bring athleticism and energy. Erica Jaramillo who sat out last season with and inury, will give us valuable minutes, and Kayla Hall — who helped coach while rehabbing — is expected back by next semester."

Clevenger, entering her junior season, says leadership and pace are her focus areas. "Pace is important in the SAC," she said. "I've worked on my pacing and with that leading by example, being in shape, and showing my teammates what the speed of the game looks like. Every night I play whatever role is needed — shooting, passing, or driving. I'll give 100% each game, each practice."

Her leadership style, she says, combines vocal encouragement with modeling consistency. "I've realized I need to bring energy every day. If my energy is low, the team feels it. I'm vocal too — not to yell, but to teach. I'll pull a teammate aside and talk things through."

Willems praised Clevenger's competitiveness and character. "Chloe plays hard. She's a great kid — and we have a team full of great kids. They enjoy being around each other, and that makes coaching fun," Willems said. "I actually coached against Chloe my first year at Central when she played for McPherson College — and she scored 20 points on us. So we've always had that fun, competitive relationship."

Clevenger, a McPherson native since high school, says she appreciates the community support. "I love having familiar faces at games. The community is amazing — and so is our team's community. I love being around them. That's the greatest feeling — having each other."

As the Tigers prepare for their non-conference slate, Willems says the Sooner Athletic Conference remains one of the most competitive leagues in the country. "Our conference is the real deal — there's not a night off," Willems said. "You look at the schedule and know every game will be a battle. But that's what makes it fun."

The Tigers open their 2025–26 season this Friday, October 31^st at the McPherson College Classic. They will play Cottey College at 5pm, and will play Randall University Saturday at 12pm. The Mayors Cup will be at McPherson College on Tuesday, November 4^th.