General 11/15/2025 11:25:00 AM

Cardinal Women’s Basketball Ready to Tip Off the 2025–26 Season

Cardinal Women's Basketball Ready to Tip Off the 2025–26 Season

Mount Vernon, WA — Veteran head coach Deb Castle, who has been part of Skagit Valley College Women's Basketball for 31 years, enters her 7th season as head coach as the Cardinals prepare to open the 2025–26 season this afternoon at Green River College for a 2pm Tip-off.

The Cardinals will play their home opener on November 18th against Northwest Indian College at 7:00 p.m. during Native American Appreciation Night. This year's non-conference schedule features 15 games, including three tournaments, before North Region play begins January 7th against Olympic College.

Coach Castle shared her thoughts on this year's group heading into the new season:

Q1: What are the biggest strengths of this year's team, and how do you expect them to shape the season?
"The strength of our team comes from the one-year transfers and redshirts who have joined the program. These four players will play major roles this season. We've added both strong shooters and defensive specialists, which should make a big impact on both ends of the floor."

Q2: Which returners or new faces should fans keep an eye on as potential impact players?
"We have three returners, including one returning starter — Allie Heino, who anchors us at the post position. Alyssa Larson and Paige Mason are also returning and will see quality minutes. Among our newcomers, one-year transfers Mallory Butenschoen and Grace Trichler will add valuable experience to our rotation. Karlee Ayers, who redshirted last season, brings great speed to the point guard position."

Q3: What are the team's main goals for the season, both on and off the court?
"Our main goals are to make the postseason, and for all of our sophomores to earn their AA transfer degrees. Competing at a high level on the court while succeeding academically remains our top priority."

Q4: What should fans expect from this year's team, and why should they come out to watch your team compete?
"Fans will see a speedy group of guards, improved three-point shooting, and an upgraded defense. This team plays hard, plays together, and will be exciting to watch."

The Cardinals are ready to make another strong run under Coach Castle's leadership as they continue to build on a proud tradition of success in Cardinal Athletics.
Go Cards!

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Players Mentioned

#4 Karlee Ayers: G; 5' 4"; Freshman

#21 Mallory Butenschoen: G; 5' 7"; Sophomore

#32 Allie Heino: P; 6' 1"; Sophomore

#14 Alyssa Larson: F; 5' 11"; Sophomore

#15 Paige Mason: G; 5' 9"; Sophomore

#13 Grace Trichler: G; 5' 8"; Sophomore

Players Mentioned

#4 Karlee Ayers
: 5' 4"; Freshman
: G

#21 Mallory Butenschoen
: 5' 7"; Sophomore
: G

#32 Allie Heino
: 6' 1"; Sophomore
: P

#14 Alyssa Larson
: 5' 11"; Sophomore
: F

#15 Paige Mason
: 5' 9"; Sophomore
: G

#13 Grace Trichler
: 5' 8"; Sophomore
: G

Players Mentioned

Players Mentioned

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