Ines Bettencourt Returns to Gonzaga WBB, Creates Robust Backcourt Depth

During the first week of official college basketball practices, Gonzaga Athletics checked off what it hopes is the first of many boxes.

As Gonzaga women’s basketball released its official non-conference schedule and full roster, fifth-year guard Inês Bettencourt was listed among the 13 available Zags for the 2026-27 season, a pleasant surprise for a Bulldogs squad that already boasted strong continuity with 10 returning players from last year. Initally, Bettencourt was one of two graduating seniors; the other was Vera Günaydin, who transferred to North Alabama.

In mid-July, Bettencourt joined a California lawsuit seeking an injunction for a fifth year of eligibility. About a month later, that group of more than 45 student-athletes received a temporary restraining order, clearing them to play a fifth season. GU men’s basketball commit Xaivian Lee was also in the case, but Bettencourt is the first of the two to sign her financial aid agreement.

Bettencourt will enter her third year at Gonzaga after spending her first two seasons at UConn. She joins three other Zags beyond their junior years, including Zeryhia Aokuso, Taylor Smith, and McKynnlie Dalan. In Storrs, Bettencourt had a limited role and entered the portal after her sophomore season in search of increased opportunity. Her minutes tripled as a junior on the Zags, splitting time as a starter and reserve, and she set career highs across the board. Then, Bettencourt started all 33 games for the Bulldogs last year, averaging 6.0 points, 3.4 rebounds, 3.0 assists, and 1.5 steals, and was the veteran on a young squad that reached the NCAA Tournament.