If you’re a college basketball fan — or even casually following women’s hoops — the name Tatum Thompson has probably popped up recently. As a standout forward for the Boise State Broncos, she’s become one of the most talked-about players in her conference. In this post, we’ll dive deep into who she is, how she got here, what makes her special on court, and why her 2025–26 season could be a defining one.
Early Years and High School Emergence
Born and raised in Woodinville, Washington, Tatum Thompson began to make waves in high school basketball at Woodinville High School. Sports Reference+2SI+2
Though she didn’t start as a prodigy — coming into AAU late and learning the game slowly — she quickly transformed into a dominant all-around player. Her final high school seasons saw her average approximately 20.0 points, 7.7 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 3.0 steals per game, while shooting a scorching 56.7% from the floor and 85.6% from the free throw line. SI
That dominance helped her lead Woodinville to its first Class 4A championship, losing only two games across her three years as a varsity starter. Her coach once said, “Tatum plays by total feel,” underscoring her natural game sense and versatility. SI
By the end of high school, she was recognized as the state’s “Miss Basketball” by the Washington State Girls Basketball Coaches Association, a testament to her rise from late-comer to top prospect. SI
College Career Begins: Finding Her Footing at Boise State
After high school, Tatum committed to the Boise State Broncos — a program that recognized her potential to grow into a high-impact forward. Boise State University Athletics+2Sports Reference+2
In her freshman and sophomore years, she saw limited minutes. According to her stat lines, she played fewer minutes per game while gradually building her game. Sports Reference+1
But even then, she showed flashes of what was possible: hustle, versatility, and a willingness to guard, rebound, and score when given the chance. These early seasons laid the foundation for what was coming.
Breakout Season: 2024–25 and Beyond
The 2024–25 season marked a major leap for Thompson. She started in all 32 games, averaged 13.6 points and 6.8 rebounds per game, and earned a spot on the 10-person Mountain West Conference All-Conference Team. Boise State University Athletics+2ESPN.com+2
More than that — she recorded seven double-doubles and scored in double figures 24 times. In three separate games she reached 25 points. In one particularly memorable game against UNLV Lady Rebels in the Mountain West quarterfinal, she shot 11-of-15 from the field for 25 points and pulled down eight rebounds. Boise State University Athletics+2Boise State University Athletics+2
Her presence wasn’t just about scoring: she snagged a career-high 16 rebounds against Fresno State Bulldogs on January 11, 2025 — a game that showcased her physicality, positioning, and timing on the boards. Boise State University Athletics
All that earned her not just recognition but expectations: as of October 2025, Thompson was named the Mountain West Preseason Player of the Year. Boise State University Athletics+1
What Makes Tatum Thompson Stand Out
Versatility and All-Around Game
Tatum Thompson isn’t just a scorer or a rebounder: she embodies a well-rounded style. She can post up, defend multiple positions, rebound with energy, and often plays a role on transition offense — all while maintaining solid shooting percentages. Her versatile profile allows coaches to deploy her in various lineups depending on matchups, which is a huge asset in modern women’s basketball.
Growth Mindset & Work Ethic
Her journey — from a “late bloomer” in AAU to high school star, to college bench player, to team leader — speaks volumes about her perseverance and commitment. Her high school coach’s comment, “Tatum plays by total feel,” highlights her natural instincts, but her progress at Boise State shows a disciplined athlete constantly honing her game.
Rising Under Pressure
Games like the UNLV quarterfinal or her rebound-laden battle against Fresno State reflect someone who rises up when it matters. That quality of stepping up in high-stakes moments often separates good players from great ones — and suggests Thompson could be a future pro-level talent if she continues developing.
The 2025–26 Season: What to Expect & Why It Matters
With the Preseason Player of the Year nod now in her hands, expectations are sky-high for Tatum this season. In the early games of 2025–26, she’s already put up around 15.8 points and 6.7 rebounds per game, shooting nearly 50% from the floor — numbers that hint she’s on a path to possibly be one of the best forwards in the Mountain West, if not the nation. ESPN.com+1
If she maintains her health, continues refining her shot selection, and further develops defensive consistency, she could lead Boise State to conference success — echoing the past seasons when previous MW Preseason Players of the Year helped their teams win titles. Boise State University Athletics+1
What’s more, a strong senior season can open doors: whether in the WNBA, overseas leagues, or even NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) opportunities. She’s already listed under “NIL Exchange” on the Boise State roster. Boise State University Athletics
Learning from Her Journey: Lessons for Aspiring Players
Tatum Thompson’s story offers more than just basketball stats. Here are some relatable takeaways:
- Late start doesn’t mean late success. Not everyone is a phenom at 13 — Thompson shows that steady development, self-belief, and hard work can pay off.
- Be versatile. Diversifying your skills — scoring, rebounding, defense — makes you invaluable to any team.
- Seize the opportunity when it comes. Her high school and college breakthroughs came when she stepped up, embraced responsibility, and played with confidence.
- Growth is a process. From modest early years to star status — her journey underscores the importance of patience, discipline, and continuous improvement.
Final Thoughts: Why Tatum Thompson Is One to Watch
As the 2025–26 season unfolds, Tatum Thompson isn’t just another name on the roster — she’s a contender for best-in-conference, perhaps even beyond. Her blend of scoring, rebounding, intelligence, and leadership make her a textbook example of a modern women’s basketball forward.
For Boise State fans, her presence offers hope for a deep postseason run. For casual basketball admirers, she represents a rising talent who has earned her moment in the spotlight. And for young players everywhere — she’s living proof that with perseverance and passion, you can rewrite your story.
Keep an eye on jersey number 0: Tatum Thompson is just getting started.
Conclusion: Tatum Thompson’s evolution — from high school standout to Boise State star — shows what can happen when talent meets relentless work ethic. As she enters her senior year and basks in preseason honors, the basketball world should watch closely. If she continues to grow, she won’t just be a name in the statsheet — but maybe a name fans remember for years
