Ducks Soar into the Big Ten: Oregon Women's Basketball Embraces a New Era

As the Oregon women's basketball team embarked on a new chapter, stepping into the Big Ten conference, it was clear that a significant transformation had taken place. With a roster infused with seven new transfer players and a pair of freshmen, the Ducks were poised to make a statement in their inaugural season in the Big Ten.

Elevating Expectations: Oregon's Renewed Pursuit of Excellence

Embracing the Transfer Portal: A Catalyst for Change

Following a challenging 11-21 campaign the previous season, Oregon head coach Kelly Graves acknowledged the need for a fresh approach. Recognizing the evolving landscape of college basketball, Graves embraced the transfer portal, actively seeking out experienced talent to bolster his team's roster. The Ducks added seven new players, including the highly sought-after Deja Kelly, a three-time All-ACC performer from North Carolina.Graves admitted that he was initially hesitant to fully embrace the transfer portal, preferring to build his teams through high school recruiting and player development. However, the realities of the modern game compelled him to adapt his strategy. "This day and age is different, and it was something that I was a little slow to embrace, quite frankly," Graves said. "This is really the first year that we've gone into the portal actively. Boy, did it produce dividends."The infusion of veteran talent, particularly at the guard position, has instilled a renewed sense of confidence within the Ducks' program. Graves believes that the team's depth, guard play, and versatility will be the keys to their success as they aim to reclaim their position among the nation's elite.

Reclaiming the Ducks' Winning Tradition

Despite the challenges of the previous season, Graves and his players remain steadfast in their belief that this year's team has the potential to return the Ducks to their former glory. "We had a little slip last year," Graves acknowledged, "but for the last six or eight years, we've been one of the best programs in the country. We have the kind of team that can get us back to where we've been."Both Deja Kelly and returning center Phillipina Kyei echoed their coach's sentiments, expressing high expectations for the upcoming season. "I'm expecting a lot from us," Kyei said. "We're ready to compete, ready to play, we're ready to go."The Ducks' new-look roster, bolstered by the transfer additions, has instilled a renewed sense of energy and optimism within the program. Graves believes that the team's depth, versatility, and veteran leadership will be crucial in their quest to reclaim their position among the nation's elite.

Embracing the Big Ten Challenge

As the Ducks transition to the Big Ten conference, they face a new set of challenges and opportunities. Graves acknowledged the competitive nature of the Big Ten, but he remains confident in his team's ability to thrive in the new environment. "We're ready to compete, ready to play, we're ready to go," Graves said.The Ducks' move to the Big Ten also marks a significant milestone in the program's history. For the first time, the team attended the Big Ten Media Days, a testament to their newfound status as a conference newcomer. This transition represents a fresh start for the Ducks, as they seek to establish themselves as a force to be reckoned with in their new conference home.With a roster infused with experienced talent and a renewed sense of purpose, the Oregon women's basketball team is poised to make a statement in the Big Ten. As they embark on this new chapter, the Ducks are determined to reclaim their place among the nation's elite programs and continue their tradition of excellence.