Northern Colorado women’s basketball announced on May 6 the signing of Ellie Magestro Kennedy to its roster for the upcoming 2026–27 season.
The addition of Magestro Kennedy is expected to strengthen Northern Colorado’s back court, bringing in Division I experience and shooting ability. She joins the Bears after playing at Wright State, where she was a key contributor over two seasons.
Magestro Kennedy appeared in all 32 games for Wright State during the 2025–26 season, making ten starts and averaging nearly nineteen minutes per game. She scored an average of 7.7 points per contest and demonstrated her range by shooting thirty-seven percent from three-point distance. Head Coach Kristen Mattio said, “Ellie is a dynamic addition to our program. We are thrilled to welcome her to our Bear Family. She’s a true sniper from the perimeter who has proven she can stretch the floor and change a game with her shooting ability. What separates her is how much she loves to flat out compete on both sides of the floor. She’s a relentless worker who is committed to her craft and dedicated to her own development. On top of that, she represents everything we value at UNC…academic excellence, competitive spirit, and an infectious energy that elevates everyone around her. Bear fans are going to love the way she competes in that Blue & Gold next season!”
In addition to her most recent performance, Magestro Kennedy played in thirty games during the previous season at Wright State and redshirted in 2023–24 due to eligibility rules or injury not specified in this announcement.
Before college, Magestro Kennedy was recognized as a standout player at Joseph A. Craig High School in Janesville, Wisconsin. She was a four-year letter winner who surpassed one thousand career points and earned multiple all-state honors.
Magestro Kennedy said about joining Northern Colorado: “I chose UNC because of the coaching staff and the culture that has been built here,” adding that “the staff was very honest and fun to be around” and describing UNC women’s basketball culture as “very special.” She also expressed gratitude for being part of it.
