OTTAWA, Kan. – The Ottawa University women's basketball team is pleased to announce the signing of Sydney Kessler for the 2026-27 season. She is from Washington, Mo. and attends St. Francis Borgia High School.

Kessler lettered in basketball at St. Francis Borgia High School. She was part of the Student Council Executive Board as treasurer. Kessler was a Spirit Leader, was part of Christ Leaders in Faith (CLIF), a Luke 18 Leader, was involved in Campus Ministry and Fellowship of Chrisitan Athletes, a Yearbook Editor, and a Healthy Lifestyles Leader. She was a member of the St. Francis Borgia soccer and softball teams as a freshman and sophomore.

Kessler helped her softball team to a second-place finish at state as a sophomore. On the basketball court, she was named to the Sullivan All-Tournament Team as a sophomore and junior. Kessler earned Second Team AAA All-Conference honors as a sophomore, was named Athlete of the Week on Feb. 3, 2025, and was a two-time All-District selection.

"We're super excited to have Sydney joining our program," said OU head women's basketball coach Hunter Bondurant. "She runs the floor hard, rebounds at a high level, and is a skilled, all-around post player. Sydney is an excellent student and person who always brings great juice. She has the ability to make a huge impact in our program over the next four years. It's going to be a lot of fun seeing her in Wilson Field House!"

Kessler is the daughter of Annie Kessler and Eric Kessler and plans to major in biology. She played travel ball for PHEE Elite under coach Brent Humiston.