2025-26 Women's Basketball Season Preview

Mt. Pleasant, Michigan - The Mid Michigan College Lady Lakers are entering the 2025 season with a
strong sense of purpose and connection. After three consecutive trips to the national tournament,
Head Coach Tanner Smith and the team have their sights set on another deep postseason run.
"I would describe our team as connected, selfless, gritty, and very coachable," said Smith. "Our
expectation is to be one of the best junior college teams in the state and make a push for a fourth
straight national tournament appearance."
The Lady Lakers' main goal this season is to strive for excellence—or as Coach Smith puts it, "a
gradual push toward being the best we can be, day in and day out." The team's pursuit of a
conference championship, regional and state titles, and a return to nationals is matched by their
off-court commitment to three guiding principles:
1. Do your absolute best
2. Do the right thing
3. Show people you care
With a balanced roster of six sophomores and six freshmen, the Lady Lakers have already found
remarkable team chemistry. "They push each other to be great," said Smith. "They encourage
and support each other better than any team I've ever coached."
Leading the way are this year's team captains — sophomores Alexus Dunn, Delaney Seaman,
and Madison Smith, along with freshman Abbie Lautzenheiser.
Fans can expect an up-tempo offensive attack paired with an aggressive, full-court defensive
style that defines the Lady Lakers' identity. "We're organized and disciplined on offense, but we
play fast," said Smith. "Defensively, we're in your face and relentless."
The program's commitment to academic success remains central to its identity. Players are
required to participate in study tables both at home and on the road, ensuring that academics
remain the top priority. "We build our schedule around academics first," said Smith. "We want
our players to thrive as students as well as athletes."

For Tanner Smith, representing Mid Michigan College is more than just a job. "Being a coach at Mid
Michigan means the world to me," he shared. "It's a privilege to impact the younger generation
and show them what's possible with determination, dedication, and a positive mindset."
As the season approaches, the Lady Lakers are preparing for another competitive MCCAA
Northern Conference, with perennial contenders, Bay College and Muskegon Community
College, expected to be strong once again. "We expect to be right in the mix," Smith said.
Success this year will be defined not only by wins and losses but by the team's effort and unity.
"We want to compete night in and night out with everything we have," said Coach. "If we
maintain a team-first attitude, a confident mindset, and a belief that we can win any game —
that's success."
Recruiting for the future is already off to a promising start, with one early commit from New
Boston Huron, described as "an outstanding person and elite shooter." The staff plans to
bring in 8–10 recruits who fit the Lakers' culture of character, competitiveness, and growth.
Looking ahead, the Lady Lakers' long-term vision is bright — especially with the new event
center under construction. "This new space will help us attract top-tier student-athletes who will
represent Mid Michigan with pride and continue our tradition of excellence."