Columbia News

The University of Missouri women's basketball team is set to play Washington State at 2 p.m. on November 23 in the WBCA Showcase, which will take place at Walt Disney World Resort. The announcement was made jointly by the Women's Basketball Coaches Association and Disney.

The event, scheduled for November 20-23, includes eight teams: Baylor, Central Missouri, Davidson, Iowa, Miami, Missouri, Washington State, and West Florida. Jason Siegel, President & CEO of the Greater Orlando Sports Commission, commented on the significance of the tournament. "This tournament continues to feature top-tier women's programs and adds to the legacy of major events hosted at ESPN Wide World of Sports at Walt Disney World," Siegel said. "We look forward to welcoming the student-athletes, coaches, administrators, and families to our community for what is sure to be an incredibly positive experience."

Kellie Harper was named as Mizzou's head coach in March, becoming only the fifth person to lead the program. Over her 20 seasons as a Division I head coach, Harper has compiled a record of 393-260 with nine NCAA Tournament appearances. She has also achieved 15 top-three finishes in league play and won four conference tournament championships. Harper brings extensive SEC experience from her time coaching and playing at Tennessee.

Grace Slaughter will return for her junior year after being named the 2024-25 SEC Scholar-Athlete of the Year. Last season she averaged 15 points per game and contributed 3.6 rebounds per contest.

Missouri's roster this season includes seven transfers: Chloe Sotell (Pepperdine), Jayla Smith (Purdue), Lisa Thompson (Rutgers), Sydney Mains (Florida Atlantic), Shannon Dowell (Illinois State), Jordana Reisma (Cleveland State), and Saniah Tyler (Kentucky).

Washington State finished last season with a record of 21-14 overall and went 14-6 against West Coast Conference opponents. The Cougars are led by junior guard Eleonora Villa, who earned WCC All-Second Team honors after averaging 13.6 points per game.

The upcoming game will be the first meeting between Missouri and Washington State.

Tickets for the WBCA Showcase are available exclusively through Ticketmaster starting at $25; all tickets must be purchased online as there will be no onsite sales at State Farm Field House box office during game days.

Broadcast details for the matchup have not yet been announced.

Season tickets for Missouri's 2025-26 campaign are currently available starting at $65. Current season-ticket holders can renew through their Mizzou Tigers ticket account.