McAffee Returns To REDS
(FREDERICTON, NB) Katie McAffee (BBA’22. BEd’23) is returning to the UNB REDS women’s basketball team for the 2025-2026 Atlantic University Sport season.
The point guard, from Lower Knoxford, NB, played the 2021-22 and 2022-23 seasons with the REDS, starting all 34 regular season games she played in and scoring 354 points on 35.4% shooting from the field.
“We’re pretty excited to add an experienced competitor and point guard to our group,” said REDS’ head coach Erin McAleenan. “I think, like most players coming back after a couple years, there will be an adjustment period early on, but Katie’s work ethic and calm presence will be a welcomed addition to our backcourt.”
“I decided to pursue my Master’s after working the past few years, and with eligibility left I couldn’t pass up the chance of potentially playing again,” said McAffee, who’ll be pursuing her Master’s of Education.
“While I haven’t played in the AUS since the 22-23 season, I’ve stayed active playing in local leagues and staying involved in the sport in other ways. I’ve been coaching during this time, which has kept me connected to the game in a different way.”
McAffee’s first stint with the REDS came after playing in 16 games with the Acadia Axewomen during the 2018-19 season.
“Having been part of a university team before and then spending time away from it, I’ve gained a real appreciation for every practice, game, and training session,” said McAffee. “I hope to bring energy, consistency, and a competitive mindset to everything we do.”
Coach McAleenan says McAffee’s work as a coach in recent years will be a big asset to the team during her return season.
“I’m really looking forward to having the chance to coach Katie,” she said. “I’ve heard great things about her career as a RED. We know she will not only help us on the court but is a strong character person who will be a great addition in upholding our team culture.”
McAffee acknowledges there will be a transition but says she’s doing what she can to make sure that period is short-lived.
“I’ve been putting in the work to be ready when the time comes. In some ways, the time away gave me a mental re-set. I’m coming back with fresh energy, a new perspective, and a deep appreciation for the opportunity to compete again.”
McAffee has two years of U SPORTS eligibility remaining, but says her focus, for now, is only on the coming season.
The REDS open their 2025-2026 AUS regular season schedule on home court on Friday, October 24th at 6:00pm when they host the UPEI Panthers.
STORY BY: Andy Campbell/UNB Athletics
FILE PHOTO: James West/for UNB Athletics