The 2025-26 season marked a meaningful historic chapter for the Coastal Bend women's basketball program as the team competed in its final season at the NJCAA Division 1 level and in Region XIV.
The season began with a challenging matchup against Texas A&M University San Antonio, followed by a breakthrough performance against the Dallas College Cedar Valley, where Coastal Bend secured its first win of the season. The team later added a second victory over Ranger College, highlighting the group's perseverance and continued improvement.
One of the most memorable moments of the season came during a late home game that pushed into overtime, ultimately ending in a narrow 3-point loss. The contest showcased the team's grit and competitive spirit, which became a defining characteristic of the program.
Coastal Bend was led by several key contributors throughout the season. Freshman forward Malaigha Sweats of West Oso High School earned All-Region XIV Honorable Mention honors, averaging nine points and six rebounds per game, while battling against some of the top post players in the region. In the back court, guard Ma'Halia Twine emerged as a consistent leader and defensive presence for the Cougars, averaging nine and a half points per game along with two steals and two assists, showing tremendous growth and impact on both ends of the floor. The team also relied on strong production from shooting guard Lean Sanchez-Perez, with one of our top perimeter players, contributing nine points per game and providing a key scoring presence.
Late in the season, several student athletes from the volleyball program stepped up in support of the team, showcasing the unity, resilience and commitment within Coastal Bend Athletics as the group continued to compete despite limited numbers.
Under first year head coach leadership, the program emphasized defensive intensity as its foundation. Despite a small roster and multiple injuries throughout the season, the team embraced adversity and continued to compete with toughness and pride. This season reflected not only athletic development but also personal growth as players matured into stronger teammates and young women.
The program will also celebrate five sophomore student-athletes set to graduate this May, recognizing their commitment, perseverance, and contributions to Coastal Bend women's basketball both on and off the court. Their leadership and dedication helped lay the foundation for the program's culture during its final chapter.
Despite Finishing with the 2-28 overall record, the Lady Cougars showed resilience, growth and determination throughout a demanding schedule against some of the toughest competition in JUCO. Competing in the highly competitive Region 14, the team earned a postseason berth and faced off against Trinity Valley Community College in the opening round of the original tournament.
"This season was special," said the head coach Josline Hernandez.
"We faced a lot of challenges, but I saw tremendous growth in this group. Our identity was built on defense, effort, and resilience. I'm proud of the way these young women competed every single game."
The season also marks the conclusion of women's basketball at Coastal Bend College as the institution has announced the discontinuation for both men and women's basketball, along with volleyball. While the program comes to a close, the impact of its student athletes, coaches and legacy will remain an important part of Coastal Bend athletic history.