TCU’s new women’s basketball coach, Raegan Pebley, is making her mark on the team both on and off the court, a mark that includes a change in defensive philosophy.

“One of the biggest changes from last year is Coach Pebley’s style, from zone to man-to-man defense,” said Kyle Seay, assistant director of media relations.

The team seems to be responding well so far.

TCU women’s basketball won its first exhibition game in an 86-40 victory over Texas Wesleyan University on Sunday.

Even though the team practices six days a week, Pebley has stressed that the group needs to build relationships outside of the gym in order to fully develop team chemistry.

At the beginning of the year, the women’s basketball team went to a ranch for a retreat to bond.

“I think it’s important to get to know them as people off the floor and then as players,” said Pebley. “Each of our coaches spend time getting to know each player personally outside of practice, making it easier to come together as a unit.”

Pebley comes to TCU from Fresno State, where she led the Bulldogs to back-to-back Mountain West championships after starting the women’s basketball program at Utah State.

The new head coach said one of her main goals is to create consistent improvement throughout the season.

“I want to challenge the team. Assess everyday that we are better today than we were yesterday. Be a team that keeps getting better until February,” said Pebley.

Pebley added that the high academic standards and TCU’s culture will be fun selling points in recruiting for years to come.

“One of the biggest differences between Fresno State and TCU is that TCU is a high academic school,” said Pebley. “TCU is going to be a really fun school to recruit for.”