Peoria, Ill – Junior guard and team captain Claire McDougall will miss the remainder of the 2025–26 season due to a lower body injury.

"Our hearts break for Claire. She is a captain and a leader within our program, and she has been playing her best basketball," said head coach Kate Popovec-Goss. "Claire's relentless fortitude will carry her through surgery and recovery, paired with the support she will receive from our medical staff, her teammates, and everyone involved in our program. We are grateful she can obtain a medical hardship waiver and look forward to her return the next two seasons."

A Washington native, McDougall has been a key contributor this season, averaging 8.9 points in 22 minutes per game. She currently leads the Braves with 13 steals.

The Braves are set to host Chicago State today and South Dakota on Wednesday, then transition into Missouri Valley Conference play on December 18 with a matchup against Southern Illinois.