Argos Sitting at 10-4, Tied for Second in Highly Competitive Conference —
The University of West Florida women’s basketball team has reached the midpoint of its season with momentum, sitting at 10-4 and tied for second place in what head coach Stephanie Yelton describes as the most balanced Gulf South Conference in years.
“We’re happy about where we are, but not satisfied with where we are,” Yelton said on the latest episode of “(We Don’t) Color on the Dog” podcast.
Building Experience Through Adversity
The Argos’ young roster has matured through competitive play, most recently showcasing their growth in an overtime victory against a team tied for first in the conference. That clutch performance demonstrated what Yelton values most about this squad.
- “I’ve learned that when it gets down to crunch time, and we really need to get something done, they can do it,” Yelton explained. “Our kids really just bought in and did what they needed to do.”
The team faced an early season challenge returning from Christmas break—a two-week gap without games that can derail momentum. But strong practices prepared them for crucial conference matchups.
A Conference Without Easy Wins
Unlike previous seasons, where four teams dominated, this year’s Gulf South Conference features unprecedented parity.
- “I think we’ve got 10 really solid teams that can beat anybody,” Yelton noted. “This is the best parity that we’ve seen in our league in a long, long time.”
Among the competition, Yelton singled out Union University’s Mark Campbell, a Naismith Hall of Famer, coaching his final season before transitioning to full-time athletic director duties.
Strategic Evolution
Yelton has adapted her coaching approach this season, incorporating zone defense and zone pressing—tactics she hadn’t anticipated using. The team’s transition offense has become its strongest weapon.
- “If we can really push the pace and get people to run with us and get some open looks, that is really where we’re doing a good job,” she said.
The fast-paced style requires balance. While turnovers are inevitable when playing at speed, Yelton focuses on eliminating “silly ones”—errant passes and unforced errors that undermine otherwise solid possessions.
Standout Performers
Two players have emerged as crucial contributors. Amelia Bell, a transfer from Mississippi College, leads the team in scoring and the league in field goal percentage. She hit the game-winning shot in overtime against Delta State.
Isabel Grimes, the starting point guard, has evolved from pure distributor to offensive threat. “She’s fast, she’s gritty, she’s a crowd favorite,” Yelton said. “Now she’s starting to score a lot more for us and really pushing the pace of our offense and defense.”
Road Ahead
The Argos face critical road games this week at Christian Brothers University in Memphis and Union University. The top eight teams advance to the conference tournament, with the top four earning home seeds. Yelton believes three teams from the GSC will earn NCAA tournament bids this year.
