Headed into the 2025-26 season, there was a bit of uncertainty surrounding the UW-Whitewater women’s basketball program. Several key players from the previous season had graduated, leaving significant playing time behind. The uncertainty didn’t last long, however. Early on in the year two players quickly asserted themselves as worthy candidates for the substantial minutes that were now available: freshman forward Brooke Stenklyft and sophomore forward Caden Krohn.

Stenklyft was recruited out of Cambridge to play early on, and has already solidified a starting role. She is averaging six points and 4.2 rebounds per game through the Warhawks’ first six games.

Stenklyft’s decision to come to Whitewater was rooted within the Warhawks’ team values as well as the prestige of the program.

“I chose to come play basketball here because UW-Whitewater is full of tradition and success, alongside the strong championship culture,” Stenklyft said.

Krohn transferred from Maryville University and is typically one of the first players off the bench. Krohn is averaging 4.8 points and 2.3 rebounds per game.

Despite being an incoming transfer, Krohn was recruited in high school by head coach Keri Carollo and is already familiar with the expectations and standards of Warhawk basketball. 

“The recruitment process was smooth and very enjoyable,” Krohn said. “Once I visited Whitewater and met everyone, committing was a very easy decision for me.” 

Being a transfer to UW-W is a rarity in of itself, as Carollo has repeatedly expressed that she only uses the transfer portal for very rare occasions and prefers to develop her student-athletes over the course of their collegiate careers. Due to those previous connections, Krohn is one of those rare occasions.

“We had our eye on her when she was in high school and that’s one of the main reasons I recruited her,” Carollo said. “We just see so much potential.” 

When the opportunity presented itself to finally bring Krohn to UW-W, Carollo knew it was the right move for the program. 

The Warhawks emphasize being a close knit team and developing their connection to the surrounding community. They’re driven by the relationships that are forged over the course of a season. These relationships have been key for Stenklyft and Krohn being able to make an early impact.

“My experience with the team so far has been nothing but positives,” Stenklyft said. “Everyone has been there for me, both on and off of the court.”

“We all believe in each other and want one another to continue to grow and be successful,” Krohn said. “We also genuinely enjoy being around each other, which really makes it more enjoyable and fun.”

For the Warhawks to make a fifth-straight Sweet 16 appearance, they’ll need players such as Stenklyft and Krohn to continue to step up and impact key minutes.