The Flying Queens posted a 3–2 record during the five-game December stretch of the 2025–26 season, improving their overall mark to 5–7 and 4–3 in Sooner Athletic Conference (SAC) play. Both December losses came in tightly contested conference matchups—by one point at Nelson University and by three points against defending SAC champion Langston University. The Queens’ three victories were decisive, coming by an average margin of 13 points.
December showcased a team growing in confidence, grit, and cohesion. The Queens’ determined defense and resilient offense kept them competitive against Nelson and Langston, and that same mentality carried into the next three games. A hard-fought three-point SAC win over Texas Wesleyan was followed by two strong all-around performances against SAC opponent Central Christian College and non-conference foe Huston-Tillotson.
Freshman Brooklyn Birkenfeld made a strong impact during the month, moving into second place in team scoring with a 10.3-point average. She trails fellow freshman Cania Mitchell, who leads the team at 12.6 points per game. Juniors Peyton North (9.0) and Jadyn Trusler (7.3) continue to provide steady leadership, while freshman Bella Dabbs rounds out the top five scorers at 7.0 points per game.
The Queens are also benefiting from valuable depth, receiving solid contributions off the bench from graduate students Ksenija Djokic, Teodora Popovic, Zalika Stevens, and sophomore Iliana Hernandez.
Following the Christmas and New Year break, the Flying Queens return to SAC action with nine conference games in January 2026—five of which will be played at The Hutch in Plainview. A key home stand from January 15 through January 24 offers a great opportunity for fans and supporters to pack the stands and cheer on the Queens as they continue their season.
Head Coach Jordan Vessels had this comment:
“December has been a great indicator of our growth as a team. Our conference games against Langston and Central Christian highlighted the progress we’re making in our execution, toughness, and ability to compete for extended stretches.
In those games, we saw our players take steps forward in understanding our system, playing with greater confidence, and responding to challenges on the road. I’m proud of the continued progress this group is making toward our goals.
Going into Christmas break, this time is important for our players to recover and get their bodies healthy as we prepare for the second half of conference play. We have a lot of basketball ahead of us, and I truly believe our best basketball is still in front of us.”
December Recap
Dec. 4 vs Nelson University, L 90-91
Dec. 6 vs Texas Wesleyan, W 58-55
Dec. 11 at Langston University, L 70-73
Dec. 13 at Central Christian College, W 60-39
Dec. 16 vs Huston-Tillotson, W 68-52
photo credit: Claudia Lusk