MACCRAY Wolverines Aim for Another Championship Run in 2025-26

The MACCRAY girls basketball team is gearing up for the 2025-26 season, aiming to build on an impressive performance from the previous year. The Wolverines made history by reaching the state tournament for the first time since 2006 and advanced to the Class A championship game, ultimately finishing with a 58-41 loss to West Central Area.

Head coach Shaun Condon, now in his ninth season, is optimistic about the upcoming year. With a record of 112-91, he emphasizes the importance of maintaining high expectations following last season’s success. “We bring back a high volume of production,” Condon stated, highlighting the need for other players to step up after the departure of key seniors Ella Hultgren and Callie Jaenisch.

Key Players to Watch

Leading the charge for the Wolverines is Brielle Janssen, a senior who stands at 6 feet 1 inch tall and is regarded as one of Class A’s top players. Last season, she averaged an impressive 26.6 points, 12.5 rebounds, 5.5 assists, 4.4 steals, and 1.2 blocks per game. Janssen, who has committed to play for Minnesota State-Mankato, is also MACCRAY’s all-time leading scorer with 2,214 career points. Her accolades include being named Class A All-State and Camden Conference North Player of the Year for the third consecutive time.

Joining Janssen is fellow senior Emma Thein, a 6-foot forward who averaged 15.0 points and 7.6 rebounds last season. Thein was also recognized as an All-Camden and All-Area pick and is just five points shy of reaching the 1,000-point milestone in her career.

The Wolverines will benefit from a talented supporting cast, including junior guard Sam Hultgren and sophomore guard Ruby Hultgren. Coach Condon praised Ruby for her high energy and playmaking abilities, noting, “She has really improved on attacking the rim.” Junior Adyson Wulf is expected to contribute significantly as well, especially after her pivotal role in the team’s playoff run last season. Condon remarked, “Addyson was an important piece of our state run last year. She is a great defender and was a pest to opposing teams in the playoffs.”

Looking Ahead

As the team prepares for the new season, Nora Hultgren, a 5-foot-11 senior, is also expected to be a vital part of the frontcourt. Condon noted her potential, stating, “Nora showed glimpses last year that she could make a big impact. She continues to improve year after year.”

With the foundation of last season’s achievements and a roster filled with talent, the MACCRAY Wolverines are poised for another deep postseason run. As the players and coaching staff focus on improvement and teamwork, fans are eagerly anticipating what the 2025-26 season will bring.