As the unofficial kickoff to college basketball arrives, excitement in Pueblo is at an all-time high. Colorado State University Pueblo head women’s basketball coach Tommie Johnson recently sat down for the team’s preseason media day [00:01] to discuss the roster’s evolution, a rigorous non-conference schedule, and the culture driving the ThunderWolves forward for the 2026–27 season. THE SCHEDULE
Reloading with High-Character Impact Additions
Following a successful offseason, the ThunderWolves welcome a blend of seasoned returners and high-impact newcomers. Rather than undergoing a full rebuild, Coach Johnson emphasized that the program has “reloaded” [00:38] by bringing in key game-changers who fit the program’s culture [00:54].
Notable new faces include Kate Gallery [01:00], an elite scorer and underrated defender transferring from Regis [01:09]. Pueblo West native Gabby Louther [01:15] returns home to provide “glue-guy” versatility [01:19], while Shelomi Sanders has turned heads with her dynamic two-way play, incredible work ethic, and leadership [01:23]. The squad also welcomes Wichita State transfer Karys Washington [01:38], a tough competitor who can secure double-doubles [01:45], and pesky point guard Jaz Salon [01:45], who brings full-court defensive pressure [01:51].
These newcomers join a core of dedicated returners, including Laci Roffle (5.7 points, 3.7 rebounds), Dasani Nesbit (5.6 points, 6.6 rebounds), Jada Bobb (6.5 points, 3.7 rebounds), Anila Owens (4.9 points, 4.0 rebounds), Malorie Byrne, and Talia Strode [01:58, 07:34], who have made the transition seamless by welcoming the new class into the program’s close-knit “sisterhood” [02:53].
Elevating Conditioning and Culture
A major point of emphasis this offseason has been physical conditioning. To ensure the ThunderWolves match their signature high-energy style of play, Coach Johnson collaborated with CSU Pueblo cross country and track & field head coach Matt Morris [10:14]. The team completed a detailed summer conditioning and weightlifting program alongside the track athletes, resulting in a squad Johnson expects to play fast and stay conditioned for the rigors of the RMAC [10:31].
Meeting the Challenge: A Tough Non-Conference Slate
True to form, CSU Pueblo is not shying away from tough competition early in the year. The ThunderWolves have scheduled rigorous early-season matchups against Lone Star Conference powerhouses, including tests against UT Tyler [11:39]. Johnson noted that scheduling the region’s best teams provides valuable tests that build confidence and prepare the roster for the competitive battle of conference play [12:08].
Community Connection and Looking Ahead
Beyond the hardwood, the ThunderWolves have heavily engaged with the local Pueblo community through volunteer opportunities and public appearances [12:36], building a strong bond with fans across the city [13:19].
With high-energy practices, deep chemistry, and a unified roster [03:56], CSU Pueblo women’s basketball is primed and ready to compete when the games tip off.
