Gage Grassick: Saskatchewan star and U SPORTS Athlete of the Year on finding power in team and community
Whether it’s early morning practices or sold-out crowds at the PAC, Gage Grassick thrives on the rhythm of university sport.
The University of Saskatchewan Huskies women’s basketball player, known for her intensity on the court and her humility off it, says her journey has always been about more than just the game.
“I’ve never lost a love of being physically active, of being part of a team with people who are working toward the same goal,” said Grassick.
“It’s that feeling of camaraderie that has kept me going.”
That commitment to excellence and leadership was recognized at the national level this spring, when Grassick was named the 2025 Lois and Doug Mitchell U SPORTS Athlete of the Year, an honour awarded to the country’s top university women’s athlete.
The award capped off a banner year for Grassick and the Huskies, who captured the gold medal at the 2024–25 U SPORTS INDOCHINO Women’s Final 8 with a 85-66 victory over defending champions, the Carleton Ravens in Vancouver.
“It’s incredibly humbling,” she said.
“I share this award with my teammates, my coaches, my family, everyone who’s supported me along the way. It’s about more than just me.”
Growing up a multisport athlete, Grassick was constantly on the move, her parents driving her between activities across their community. That constant exposure to sport helped shape her drive and discipline.
“They really put on the miles so I could just play,” she recalled.
“It made me want to try something new and keep pushing myself.”
Grassick’s love for basketball was sparked early. She remembers the thrill of her first big high school games, the sense of belonging that came with stepping on the court.
“There’s just something about being out there, under the lights, surrounded by your teammates, your coaches, your community—it never gets old,” she said.
That connection to the community runs deep. Grassick spoke emotionally about the support Saskatchewan receives during Canada West playoffs, especially the electricity of a sold-out gym at home.
“You feel it in your chest when that crowd gets going,” she said.
“It’s an unreal feeling to be supported like that. And to turn around after the game and shake hands with fans, young girls, and community members who came out to cheer us on, it’s powerful.”
The Huskies’ 2024–25 season was filled with moments like that, and Grassick credits her teammates for the team’s success.
“I’ve never been on a team with so many talented athletes,” she said.
“It makes you want to be better, to do more, not just for yourself, but for everyone around you.”
According to Grassick, those team moments stand out just as much as the wins.
“Six a.m. practices, summer training sessions, grinding through tough drills… you look back and realize that’s what got us to this point,” she said.
“Those are the moments no one sees, but they’re what matter most.”
She believes the Huskies are building something special, not just in terms of results, but in culture.
“We’re just so capable. We push each other and support each other, and that’s what makes the difference. It’s a team of athletes who want to make an impact not only in the national game, but in our communities too.”
That broader sense of purpose is what motivates Grassick. She’s inspired by seeing women take up more space in sport, both on the court and behind the scenes.
“It’s so inspiring to see people, especially women, involved in sport in different ways,” she said.
“It’s not just about being an athlete, it’s about contributing, coaching, organizing, mentoring. That’s what creates real change.”
Grassick hopes the next generation feels empowered to follow in those footsteps.
“There’s still a misconception that men’s sports matter more. But I want to help shift that narrative,” she said.
“Representation matters. And I want young girls to see us and think, ‘I can do that too.’”
Now entering her final year, Grassick is embracing everything university sport has to offer, such as leadership, competition, and community impact.
“Being part of university sport is amazing,” she said.
“You get to grow as a player and a person. You learn about sacrifice, perseverance, and being there for something bigger than yourself.”