Simon Fraser Red Leafs women's basketball head coach Shae Dheensaw has appointed Daniel Ferguson and Makenna Gardner as full-time assistant coaches. Ferguson, who has an extensive coaching background, including experience with Canada's Senior Women's 3x3 National Team, is excited to return to his roots in British Columbia. Gardner, an SFU alumna and former team captain, aims to leverage her playing experience to guide current athletes. Dheensaw expressed enthusiasm about the potential of this new coaching staff to enhance the program's success.

By the Numbers
  • Ferguson led Canada's Senior Women's 3x3 National Team to three wins out of four FIBA stops last year.
  • Gardner was named Most Valuable Player at the Warrior Classic tournament in November 2023.
State of Play
  • Dheensaw's inaugural season is shaping up with the addition of two strong coaches.
  • The SFU women's basketball team is set to release its 2026-27 NCAA season schedule later this summer.
What's Next

Expect Ferguson and Gardner to implement innovative strategies and mentor current athletes, potentially leading to improved team performance in the upcoming season. Their backgrounds may inspire a more competitive edge within the program.

Bottom Line

The new coaching appointments of Ferguson and Gardner present an exciting opportunity for SFU women's basketball to build on its legacy and success. Their diverse experiences and commitment to athlete development could significantly enhance the team's future prospects.