For Immediate Release
GALLATIN, TN—Welch College is proud to announce a banner year for the Lady Flames basketball program, highlighted by extraordinary individual honors and team success that will be remembered in Welch history.
The 2025–26 season marked one of the most successful campaigns in program history for the Lady Flames. Under the leadership of Head Coach Katie Bryan, the team achieved remarkable accomplishments on and off the court, earning recognition across the region and drawing national attention. The Lady Flames received the ranking in the February Coach’s Poll of 2nd overall—the highest rank in Welch history.
Coach Katie Bryan was selected as Mideast Region Coach of the Year in recognition of her outstanding leadership, strategic excellence, and commitment to developing student-athletes. This prestigious honor reflects a season in which the Lady Flames demonstrated resilience, teamwork, and competitive excellence.
Senior Karilyn Wieting was named Mideast Region Player of the Year, a testament to her dominant play throughout the season. Wieting’s leadership and performance were instrumental in many of the team’s key victories, and she closed out her season as one of the most impactful players in Welch College history.
In a feat rarely seen in college basketball, Karilyn Wieting and teammate Faithe Johnstone each reached the milestone of 1,000 career points this season. Their scoring achievements highlight not only their individual talent but the offensive versatility and balance that defined the Lady Flames’ attack. Up to this point in her career, Wieting has 1,414 points and 734 rebounds. Johnstone has 1,015 points, 302 assists, and 518 rebounds.
The Lady Flames capped their exceptional season by winning the Regional Championship, securing their place in the upcoming National Tournament in Minneapolis, Minnesota, scheduled for March 11–14. This marks the first time in program history that the Lady Flames will participate in the National Tournament, setting the stage for an exciting postseason run.
Welch College Athletics is committed to developing leaders who combine academic excellence, Christian character, and athletic achievement. The Lady Flames’ historic season stands as a testament to that mission and to the continued growth of the athletic department. The Lady Flames look forward to representing Welch College in Minnesota at the National Tournament.
If you are interested in following their journey, you can do so at this website: https://thenccaa.org/tournaments/?id=4898&path=wbball2.
To learn more about becoming a student at Welch College, email recruit@welch.edu.