Ball State University Athletics
WBB Secures International Standout Jennifer Mailei to Finalize its 2026 Recruiting Class
May 19, 2026 | Women's Basketball
MUNCIE, Ind. — Ball State head women's basketball head coach Brady Sallee has officially announced the high-profile commitment of New Zealand standout Jennifer Mailei (Sydney, New South Wales, Australia) to the Cardinals' 2026 roster.
"I was very specific with the skill type we wanted to complete our roster for next season and we hit the nail on the head with Jennifer," Sallee said. "She is tough and physical along with being very versatile and skilled. She will add to the athleticism we've already brought to this roster. Once we got to know her, it was clear to me that she is a Ball State type of young lady…she fits our culture well! We are extremely excited to welcome Jennifer to our Cardinal Family."
Mailei, a rising talent on the international stage, brings elite-level size and experience to Muncie. She recently represented the New Zealand U17 National Team on its USA tour and competed at the FIBA U17 Women's World Cup in Mexico. She also helped the New Zealand international squad earn the bronze medal in the 2024 FIBA U-16 at the women's basketball Asian championships.
Mailei joins recent signees Faith Walker (York, Pa./West York) and Helen Holley (Cleveland, Ohio) along with early commits Lillian Barnes (Valparaiso, Ind.) and Dutch standout Klaske Miedema.
"I was very specific with the skill type we wanted to complete our roster for next season and we hit the nail on the head with Jennifer," Sallee said. "She is tough and physical along with being very versatile and skilled. She will add to the athleticism we've already brought to this roster. Once we got to know her, it was clear to me that she is a Ball State type of young lady…she fits our culture well! We are extremely excited to welcome Jennifer to our Cardinal Family."
Mailei, a rising talent on the international stage, brings elite-level size and experience to Muncie. She recently represented the New Zealand U17 National Team on its USA tour and competed at the FIBA U17 Women's World Cup in Mexico. She also helped the New Zealand international squad earn the bronze medal in the 2024 FIBA U-16 at the women's basketball Asian championships.
Mailei joins recent signees Faith Walker (York, Pa./West York) and Helen Holley (Cleveland, Ohio) along with early commits Lillian Barnes (Valparaiso, Ind.) and Dutch standout Klaske Miedema.
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