By Brian Hradsky
Augusta University women’s basketball entered full-team practice for 2026–27 with a recent record of sustained success to build upon. The Jaguars are coming off their third consecutive 20-win season and an NCAA Tournament appearance. Head coach Celeste Stewart is emphasizing the work required to maintain that standard.
Stewart emphasizes chemistry and execution
Eight newcomers join returning players on this year’s roster. Augusta’s October practice report noted that most of the additions are upperclassmen. That experience could help the learning process, although familiarity with college basketball does not automatically create familiarity with a new system.
The shift from individual and small-group workouts to five-on-five practice allows Stewart to evaluate how the pieces fit together. Off-court relationships now have to translate into spacing, communication and shared decisions during live possessions. The Jaguars’ established expectations give those practices a clear purpose as another season approaches.
GSB Take
Augusta has earned the right to expect competitive basketball, but the new roster still has to establish its own rhythm. The number of experienced newcomers makes chemistry a more useful early storyline than simply counting returning names. Watch how quickly the Jaguars communicate defensively and generate organized possessions once regular-season play begins.