MiraCosta College Women’s Basketball made a statement on Saturday, November 1, with a dominant 118–38 victory over the College of the Desert Roadrunners to open the 2025–26 season. The win marked a strong debut for new head coach Westly Perryman and a fresh chapter for the program built on teamwork, accountability, and culture.

For Perryman, the outcome was bigger than the score.

“This game showed what happens when we trust the process and play for each other,” Perryman said. “I’m proud of how this group stayed connected and kept their focus. They’ve worked hard to build that chemistry, and it showed from start to finish.”

Sophomore guard Kyla Palpallatoc led the scoring with 15 points, while sophomore forward Kiya Waters posted a double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds. Both credited the team’s energy and unity for the win.

“Coach West brings out the best in us,” Waters said. “He pushes us, but he also believes in us. Everyone on this team plays with heart, and that’s what makes this win so special.”

Palpallatoc added, “We’ve been putting in the work every day. To start the season like this feels incredible, but we know it’s just the beginning. We’re hungry for more.”

This season also marks a meaningful milestone for both players, who are preparing to graduate and transfer to continue their academic and athletic careers. Their leadership on the court reflects the college’s commitment to developing student-athletes who excel both in competition and in the classroom.

That same drive defines Perryman’s own journey. A Massachusetts native and former top-ranked high school player, he learned early that success is earned through perseverance. After taking the junior-college route to Monroe College in the Bronx, Perryman became an All-American and conference champion before continuing at Boise State and playing professionally in Germany and China.

When his playing career ended, Perryman found his true calling in coaching. He began in Los Angeles as a freshman coach before quickly rising through the ranks. At Grossmont College, he transformed a struggling program into a playoff contender with a 24–6 record and a top-13 state ranking. His leadership and ability to build strong relationships earned him a statewide Coach of the Year nomination.

Now leading MiraCosta, Perryman’s focus is on building a program rooted in purpose.

“I want our players to grow as people first,” he said. “Basketball is what we do, but character and connection are what define us. When we care about each other off the court, everything on the court falls into place.”

That mindset has already reshaped the Spartans’ identity. Practices are competitive yet supportive, driven by a shared sense of pride and family. Players describe the atmosphere as demanding but deeply motivating, a reflection of Perryman’s belief that success begins with trust.

Saturday’s victory was proof that the foundation is solid. The energy, discipline, and selflessness on display were unmistakable, and the Spartans are poised to build on that momentum.

For MiraCosta Women’s Basketball, the message is clear: the season has only just begun, and this team is just getting started.