Chaos, Confidence, and a Breakout Star: Inside K-State Women’s Basketball’s Turning Point
Tess Heal opens up on leadership, confidence, and why Bramlage felt like home as K-State leans into chaos in Big 12 play on the latest episode of "Run it Back" with Jazsmin Halliburton
K-State women’s basketball has found a spark in senior guard Tess Heal, whose recent performances are turning heads in Big 12 play. Heal, who transferred from Stanford and has international experience, has emerged as both a scoring force and a leader on a young Wildcats roster.
After reflecting over the holiday break, Heal committed to being more aggressive and leading by example. That mentality paid off in K-State’s thrilling 71-62 win over Houston, where she scored 31 points, including six critical free throws during a tense fourth-quarter scuffle. “I’m going to score. I’m going to be aggressive. I’m going to be a leader,” Heal said of her post-break mindset, which has already boosted the team’s performance.
Coach Minnie has emphasized playing a chaotic style to maximize the team’s strengths, creating confusion for opponents through constant defensive switches and up-tempo offense. Heal has embraced this approach, blending her toughness and adaptability from international competition with her collegiate experience to help the Wildcats force turnovers and generate scoring opportunities.
Despite a loss to Utah, Heal continues to shine, averaging over 22 points in her last four games with efficient shooting from the field and beyond the arc. Her leadership on and off the court is helping K-State navigate the challenges of a young team while building confidence and cohesion.
As K-State prepares for a key matchup against Texas Tech, Heal’s emergence signals that the Wildcats are poised to make noise in the Big 12 this season.