ELMHURST, Ill. - The Elmhurst University women's basketball team is set to tip off its 2026-27 campaign on the road against Knox College, Friday, Nov. 6, at 7 p.m. in Galesburg, Ill.

The Bluejays enter the season tied for fourth in the College Conference of Illinois & Wisconsin (CCIW) preseason coaches poll, receiving 41 points alongside Carthage College. The blue and white will return four starters, including All-CCIW honorees Kristin Bukata and Natalie Harty, as the bluejays look to build on last season's progress. 

Under head coach Cameron Tucker, Elmhurst enters the new campaign with an emphasis on depth, speed and continued development on both ends of the court.

"I think we will build off of last year's progress," Tucker said. "We will be deeper and faster than we were last year."

The Bluejays return a strong offensive foundation led by Bukata, Harty and Natalie Robinson, with Tucker emphasizing the team's approach and commitment to improvement.

"Bukata, Harty, and Robinson will lead us in points but they are all unselfish and want to see this team succeed," Tucker said. "Rebounding and defense are where we need to show improvements. Our offense was one of the most efficient in the country."

Leading the returning group is Bukata, a First Team All-CCIW selection who averaged 17.4 points and 7.4 assists per game during the 2025-26 season. Bukata established herself among the nation's top playmakers, leading NCAA Division III in assists per game with 7.4 while ranking third nationally in total assists with 185 across 25 games during the 2025-26 regular season. 

The returning guard also enters the season as the CCIW's leading returning scorer, bringing experience and leadership to the Bluejays' backcourt. "Bukata is the best point guard in the country. A coach's dream. She can score, defend, and find her teammates," Tucker said.

Joining Bukata is Second Team All-CCIW honoree Harty, who returns as a key offensive contributor. Tucker described Harty as an "elite-level shooter," highlighting her importance to the team's perimeter offense.

Inside, Robinson is expected to provide a strong presence around the basket after making strides during the offseason.

"Robinson will be our low post presence. Great around the rim and has added a lot to her game over the summer," Tucker said.

The Bluejays will also look to Maia Lewers for her defensive contributions, while senior Macie Gil Ramos enters the season with an opportunity to take on an expanded role. Tucker anticipates Gil Ramos as a player ready for a breakout year. While Melanie Blanco is expected to bring energy off the bench, with Tucker recognizing her ability to provide a spark

Elmhurst will welcome additional new faces to its rotation as the Bluejays look to establish a deeper and faster lineup. Courtneye Schneider will also contribute to the team's interior depth, helping the Bluejays match up against larger opponents while maintaining a presence in the low post.

With a combination of experienced returners and additional depth, Elmhurst will look to maintain its offensive production while placing a greater emphasis on rebounding and defensive consistency.

The Bluejays open their 2026-27 schedule on the road against Knox College on Nov. 6 before returning to R.A. Faganel Hall for their home opener against Washington University in St. Louis on Tuesday, Nov. 10, at 2 p.m.

Elmhurst will then travel to Wheaton, Ill., for matchups against Maryville College on Nov. 13 and the University of Olivet on Nov. 14. The Bluejays begin CCIW competition on Wednesday, Dec. 2, traveling to Bloomington, Ill., to face Illinois Wesleyan University at 7 p.m.

With a returning core of all-conference talent and an emphasis on continued growth, Elmhurst looks to carry its offensive strengths into the new season while developing a more complete presence on both ends of the floor.