The University of Saskatchewan Huskie athletes are braving frigid temperatures in Saskatoon’s –40s as they gather at the Merlis Besher Centre for practice this week. Despite the harsh weather, the Huskie women’s basketball team is on a scorching streak, boasting 44 consecutive wins spanning over a year and two seasons. The reigning 2025 U Sports champions have not faced defeat since the Calgary Dinos triumphed over them in November 2024.
This Friday, the undefeated Huskies, with a perfect 14-0 record in the regular season, will defend their winning streak against the Calgary Dinos, the team that handed them their last loss back in 2024. Forward Téa DeMong expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming match, relishing the opportunity for redemption and emphasizing the shift in pressure from their team to the opponents.
The Huskies benefit from a wealth of experienced leadership, including five fifth-year players and three fourth-year members. Head coach Lisa Thomaidis, who has led the team for 27 years, emphasized the importance of veteran leadership in the team’s success, citing their wealth of experience in navigating victories and setbacks.
Apart from their seasoned players, the Huskies also have the guidance of one of the top head coaches in U Sports basketball. Thomaidis, who has steered the team to three national titles, has also coached national teams in Canada and Germany, solidifying her coaching prowess.
Team captain Gage Grassick praised the coaching staff for their role in the team’s perennial success, highlighting their ability to shape not only skilled basketball players but also exceptional individuals. Grassick, the 2025 U Sports player of the year, described the team as “gritty,” emphasizing their tenacity and relentless pursuit of success.
As they gear up for back-to-back games against the formidable Dinos, the Huskies will rely on their unity and hard work. Guard Logan Reider emphasized the team’s familial bond and their commitment to preparation, regardless of the opponent. Grassick echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the fierce competition within the Canada West conference and emphasizing the team’s dedication to maintaining their dominance.
With the playoffs looming, Thomaidis acknowledged the tough competition within the conference as a driving force for improvement. She expressed confidence in the team’s potential to achieve even greater heights, building on the impressive performance from the previous year.
The highly anticipated face-off between the Huskies and Dinos is scheduled for 6 p.m. CT on Friday at the Physical Activity Complex on the U of S campus, followed by the men’s game. The action continues on Saturday, commencing at 5 p.m. CT.