2025–2026 Season Summary

Purdue Fort Wayne Mastodons basketball is a Division I program in the Horizon League. Established in 1964 and known for Don the Mastodon. Purdue Fort Wayne basketball has competed across the Horizon League championship contention through multiple eras at the Division I level. Purdue Fort Wayne is in the heart of the current schedule, posting a 10-7 record across 17 games. The statistical leaders for Purdue Fort Wayne this season are Alana Nelson (579 points), Lili Krasovec (190 rebounds), and Lauren Lee (115 assists). The Mastodons play home games on the Purdue Fort Wayne campus. The Mastodons most recently posted a win (80-70) on January 22, 2026 at Fort Wayne, IN. Their next game is scheduled for January 24, 2026 at Highland Heights, KY. The Mastodons carry Don the Mastodon tradition, with "Go 'Dons!" as the program's fight song. When fans fuel a Mastodon athlete on RallyFuel, 90% lands directly with the athlete — funding training, recovery, and the realities of college sports.

Purdue Fort Wayne Women's Basketball: A Cornerstone of Athletic Excellence

The Purdue Fort Wayne Women's Basketball Program stands at the forefront of NCAA Division I competition within the Horizon League, establishing itself as a pivotal element of the university's athletic identity. This program not only engages in fierce regional rivalries but also consistently seeks national exposure, preparing student-athletes to emerge as well-rounded leaders both on and off the court. The dual focus on athletic prowess and academic excellence cultivates a unique environment where talent is nurtured to compete against some of the nation’s most formidable mid-major teams. By emphasizing individual skill development alongside cohesive team dynamics, the program underscores its commitment to holistic student-athlete growth.

State-of-the-Art Facilities & Comprehensive Development Framework

The women's basketball program is supported by cutting-edge facilities that are meticulously designed to enhance high-performance athletics and foster player development. The home arena not only provides an exhilarating atmosphere that energizes players and fans alike but also serves as a platform for showcasing talent to a wider audience. Complementing this is a comprehensive training complex dedicated to strength, conditioning, and sport-specific skill enhancement, ensuring that every athlete is primed for success. Furthermore, tailored academic support services for basketball student-athletes ensure a balanced collegiate experience, allowing them to excel academically while managing the rigorous demands of their sport.

• Hilliard Gates Sports Center: The primary home court boasts a seating capacity of approximately 2,800, featuring a premium hardwood playing surface and amenities that cultivate an intense competitive atmosphere while maximizing spectator engagement.
• Advanced Training Facilities: State-of-the-art weight rooms, conditioning centers, and cutting-edge video analysis technology are available to optimize athlete performance and minimize injury risks.
• Dedicated Academic Support Services: Focused tutoring and academic advising are provided to address the unique schedules and needs of basketball athletes, ensuring educational success alongside athletic commitments.
• Innovative Coaching Philosophy: Emphasizing disciplined defense and dynamic offensive strategies, the coaching staff is committed to fostering adaptability, teamwork, and comprehensive player development at all levels.
• Performance Metrics and Recruitment Cycles: The program utilizes data-driven performance metrics to assess athlete development, while strategically timing recruitment cycles to attract top-tier talent aligned with the program's values.

Market Dynamics & NIL Value Proposition in Women's Basketball

Competing at Purdue Fort Wayne offers student-athletes unparalleled commercial and branding opportunities within the evolving landscape of collegiate athletics. The program benefits significantly from regional media exposure through comprehensive Horizon League broadcasting agreements, including innovative streaming platforms that broaden reach and engagement with an expanding fanbase. This local support translates into a dedicated and passionate audience, providing vital engagement opportunities for both athletes and sponsors.

For high-level recruits, the program represents an exceptional environment for personal brand development, strategically leveraging competitive play, extensive media visibility, and active community involvement. The emphasis on Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rights within college basketball enables athletes to capitalize on lucrative endorsements and partnerships, particularly in the rapidly growing regional market. By converting media exposure into brand equity, the Purdue Fort Wayne Women's Basketball Program stands out as an attractive destination for aspiring student-athletes who seek both athletic excellence and personal growth, thereby enhancing their overall marketability in an increasingly competitive landscape.