Minnesota West Captures Second National Title in Three Years
Minnesota West Community and Technical College has reclaimed its place at the top of NJCAA Division III women’s basketball, capturing the 2026 National Championship with a 51-41 victory over Anoka-Ramsey on Saturday at Brownwood Coliseum. The title marks the Lady Jays’ second national crown in three seasons, cementing the program as a small-college powerhouse.
Minnesota West finished its remarkable season 26-5, closing with a dominant 15‑game winning streak that showcased their depth, defense, and competitive edge.
Entering the national tournament with a first‑round bye, the Lady Jays wasted no time making a statement. They erupted for 84 points in their quarterfinal win over Onondaga, then followed with a hard-fought victory against perennial contender Fulton-Montgomery to punch their ticket to the national title game.
The bracket was full of familiar Minnesota College Athletic Conference rivals. Northland, entering as the No. 6 seed, battled their way to an impressive third‑place finish.
Sophomore forward Katrina Schutz delivered a standout tournament performance that earned her Most Valuable Player honors, averaging 19 points and 15 rebounds per game. In the championship matchup, she anchored the defense with 11 points and a career‑high 20 rebounds, helping hold Anoka‑Ramsey to just 41 points.
Freshman Payton Reimers came off the bench and delivered an exceptional tournament; most notably in the championship game, where she poured in 24 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 steals. Her performance became even more crucial after Izzy Klumper went down with a knee injury in the closing seconds of the semifinal game. Despite being limited, Klumper battled through the injury to contribute what she could in the title game.
In the semifinal, Izzy was the defensive hero, shutting down Fulton‑Montgomery’s top three‑point shooter in the second half and helping secure Minnesota West’s spot in the championship.
Freshman Katelyn Frodermann also had a major impact in the title game, taking two charges and helping contain Anoka‑Ramsey’s post players, one of the keys to the Lady Jays’ defensive dominance.
This championship truly required contributions from the entire nine‑player roster. While Ayla Texley and Anistasia Smith may not have logged heavy minutes, their preparation, energy, and commitment throughout the season were essential to the team’s success.
Sophomores Sadie Krahling and Maddie Kamm were also honored for their steady, high‑level play, each earning spots on the All‑Tournament Team.
Minnesota West alum Olivia Hayenga, Coach Moz’s niece, was also part of the special week. Hayenga was named NJCAA DIII National Player of the Year in both 2022-23 and 2023-24 after leading the Lady Jays to back‑to‑back national championship games, including a national title in 2023-24.
She traveled to Texas to support the 2026 squad and help capture memories through photography, an act that meant more to the team and coaching staff than she may ever fully realize. Her legacy and accomplishments paved the way for the current group of Lady Jays, setting the standard for determination.
Guided by a Champion Coach
Head coach Rosalie “Moz” Hayenga-Hostikka, grinning from ear to ear after the final buzzer, was named Coach of the Tournament. Her steady leadership and ability to build a cohesive, resilient roster have been hallmarks of the program’s continued success.
“Winning once is special,” Hayenga-Hostikka said postgame. “Winning twice in three years says everything about this program; hard work, dedication, and the way we all lift each other up.”
Over the past several seasons, Minnesota West has established itself as one of the premier women’s basketball programs in NJCAA Division III. With two national championships in three years and a culture defined by toughness and togetherness, the Lady Jays continue to raise the bar.
And they did, on top of the nation once again.