VICTORIA – The University of Victoria women's basketball team opens its 2026-27 home season by hosting the UVic Invitational Oct. 16-18, then tips off Canada West play at home on Oct. 29 against the University of the Fraser Valley on the Ken and Cathy Shields Court.
The Vikes enter the season with a fresh look and plenty of young talent. After graduating much of their frontcourt size, UVic will transition from one of the tallest teams in the conference to a smaller, quicker lineup built around pace, versatility, and aggressive play at both ends of the floor.
Head coach
Carrie Watts enters her sixth season leading the program after guiding the Vikes to a 9-11 conference record last year. She'll be joined by two new assistant coaches this season.
Jordan Webb arrives after coaching at both the university and national team levels in the United Kingdom before moving to Canada to join Simon Fraser University's women's basketball staff.
Meg Wilson joins the Vikes following four seasons as lead assistant coach at Western University and experience with Canada Basketball's Junior Academy. Before coaching, Wilson had a standout playing career at Simon Fraser University, represented Canada at the FISU Games, and played professionally in Europe for five years.
From the Coach
"I'm really excited about what's to come. We're a young team that will be together for a number of years, and there are changes coming both offensively and defensively. Our style of play is going to make us a fun team to watch. Even though we're young, our players gained valuable experience last season and learned what it takes to compete in U SPORTS. Our compete level is high, and everyone is excited about the direction we're heading." -
Carrie Watts, head coach
Key Returners
Makena Anderson | Forward | Fourth Year
The most experienced player on this year's roster, Anderson returns after starting 21 games last season. The SMUS graduate averaged 12.2 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game in 2025-26.
At 6-foot, Anderson's versatility allows her to impact the game at multiple positions. Her athleticism, defensive length, and basketball IQ make her a natural leader.
Avery Geddes | Guard | Second Year
After earning Canada West Rookie of the Year honours and a place on the U SPORTS All-Rookie Team last season, Geddes is poised for an even bigger role in her sophomore campaign. The SMUS product averaged 9.9 points, 3.7 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game while leading the Vikes in minutes played. Nationally, she ranked among the country's top rookies in scoring, playmaking, and three-point shooting, establishing herself as one of the conference's rising stars.
Iva Kalabric | Forward | Second Year
Kalabric gained valuable experience as a rookie, learning alongside veteran post players
Abigail Becker and
Mimi Sigue. The Claremont Secondary alum showed flashes of her potential throughout the year and is expected to take on a significantly larger role this season. With increased opportunity, the second-year forward will be counted on to provide scoring, rebounding, and physicality in the paint.
Additions to watch
Mia Parkin | Guard | Third Year
A transfer from Capilano College, Parkin arrives in Victoria with an impressive résumé that includes PacWest Rookie of the Year, All-Rookie Team recognition, and First-Team All-Star honours. The Adelaide, Australia native has averaged 11.3 points per game during her collegiate career and is expected to make an immediate impact. Her combination of speed, defensive length, and ability to score in transition should fit perfectly with the Vikes new up-tempo style.
Abby Holt | Forward | First Year
The Edmonton product adds size to the Vikes' young roster at 6-foot-1. A graduate of Jasper Place High School, Holdt has impressed early with her consistency, composure, and physical presence. As a first-year player, she is expected to play meaningful minutes and help solidify Victoria's frontline.
