Rust College women’s basketball unveils season schedule

HOLLY SPRINGS, Miss. — Rust College has announced its 2025-26 women’s basketball season schedule, featuring a slate of home games with special fan themes, key returning players, and a class of new recruits aiming to push the Bearcats further in the HBCU Athletic Conference (HBCUAC).

The Bearcats, led by head coach Jaleesa Sams, are coming off a third-place finish in the HBCUAC East Division and a second-round appearance in last season’s conference tournament. Sams said the team’s offseason work has positioned Rust to take another step forward.

“This group has worked extremely hard in the offseason, and I’m excited to see how they compete together,” Sams said. “With our returning leaders and a talented class of new recruits, I believe we have the tools to take another step forward and make Bearcat Nation proud.”

Season Opener and Key Returners

The season begins Oct. 27 at home against Arkansas Baptist College at 5 p.m., with Pink Out Night highlighting breast cancer awareness. The first 100 fans will receive a free pink Rust College T-shirt.

Rust returns two of its top performers:

• Patsy Johnson, who ranked in the conference’s top five in scoring and top 10 in three-point shooting.
• Michaela Payton, who finished top five in field goal percentage and top 10 in rebounds.

The duo will anchor a roster bolstered by newcomers ready to contribute immediately.

Themed Home Games

Fans at Kinzell Lawson Gymnasium can expect an electric atmosphere with a lineup of themed nights throughout the season:

• Oct. 27 vs Arkansas Baptist | Pink Out Night
• Nov. 6 vs Tougaloo College | Blue Out Night
• Nov. 8 vs LeMoyne-Owen | Homecoming / Dr. Ishmell Edwards Classic
• Nov. 13 vs Wilberforce | Student Appreciation Night
• Nov. 18 vs Crowley’s Ridge | Sneakerhead Night
• Jan. 22 vs Talladega | High School Night
• Jan. 24 vs Voorhees | Alumni Appreciation Day
• Jan. 29 vs Oakwood | Faculty & Staff Appreciation Night
• Jan. 31 vs Fisk | White Out Day
• Feb. 2 vs Paul Quinn | Jersey Night
• Feb. 3 vs Freed-Hardeman | Black Out Night
• Feb. 10 vs Philander Smith | Greek Night
• Feb. 14 vs Stillman | Senior Day

Athletic Director Jeremy Patterson said the combination of tradition and new energy should make for a memorable year.

“This season is about continuing the growth of Rust College women’s basketball while also embracing the fresh energy our newcomers bring,” Patterson said.

Tickets

Season tickets are now available for $85 and can be purchased online at RustAthletics.com under the “Bearcat Zone” tab or at the campus business office.