McLean County Times

Illinois State University's women's basketball team has announced a new addition to its roster for the 2024-2025 season. Head coach Kristen Gillespie confirmed that Morgan Bruno from Chicago, Illinois, will join the Redbirds.

Bruno played a significant role in leading Loyola Academy to an undefeated season and an IHSA Class 4A State championship. The team achieved a historic 38-0 record, marking them as only the third girls' basketball team in state history to reach this milestone. Their season was capped with a victory over Nazareth Academy in the Class 4A title game at CEFCU Arena.

The 5-foot-11 guard participated in 34 games during her time with the Ramblers, including the state title match held in March.

Morgan Bruno comes from a family with deep roots in basketball. Her grandfather is Doug Bruno, a Women's Basketball Hall of Famer and head coach of DePaul's Blue Demons, who has amassed over 750 wins during his tenure. Her mother, Stacy (Krumrei), also played under Doug Bruno at DePaul.

The Redbirds are set to return key players for the next season, including All-MVC Freshman Team selection Shannon Dowell and experienced point guard Maya Wong. Additionally, former NCAA Division III National Player of the Year Elyce Knudsen from Millikin University, Addi Martin from Abilene Christian University, and All-MVC Freshman team selection Nevaeh Thomas from Evansville have joined Illinois State for the upcoming campaign.

Last year, Illinois State reached the WNIT Super 16 stage, marking their fourth consecutive postseason appearance. They achieved back-to-back 20-win seasons for the first time since the 2009-2010 and 2010-2011 seasons.

For more information on Illinois State tickets and other offerings such as Weisbecker Athletic Fund gifts and Redbird merchandise, visit GoRedbirds.com or use the Illinois State Redbirds App.