Women's Basketball | 11/14/2025 4:35:00 PM

Utah Tech head women's basketball coach JD Gustin announced on Friday the signing of three high school standouts who will all join the program for the 2026-27 season.

The Trailblazers inked all-Region Nine sharpshooter Reese Gustin, along with one of Hawai'i top prep guards in Pua Herrington, and Orange County star post player Kyara Vargas. 

"We are thrilled to welcome Pua, Kyara, and Reese to our Utah Tech Women's Basketball family," Coach Gustin said. "Each of them brings a unique skill set and competitive spirit that aligns with the standard of our program. We're excited for their future and can't wait to get them on campus."
 
Gustin (5-9; St. George, Utah) averaged 12.3 points, 5.1 rebound and 2.7 steals during her junior season at Pine View HS last year. She scored in double figures in 17 of her 25 games played with three 20-plus point outings, including consecutive starts against both Delta (22 pts) and Highland (26 pts – season high) to open the 2024-25 campaign.

Gustin, who is a three-time, all-region selection and two-time Utah 4A all-state honorable mention pick, is also one of the UHSAA's top 3-point shooters, having hit a combined 115 treys in 73 career games over her first three prep seasons.  

"Reese embodies everything we value — leadership, work ethic, and a commitment to being a great teammate," said Coach Gustin. "She also has good size for her position and can make 3-pointers."
 
A three-time, all-state selection, Herrington (5-10; Honolulu, Hawai'i) enjoyed a banner junior season at Maryknoll HS last year, for which she averaged 20.9 points and knocked down 22 3-pointers in 21 games. 

Herrington scored in double figures in all 21 starts with four 30-plus outings, highlighted by a 38-point night with six 3-pointers in a home win over El Capitan. 

"Pua is a dynamic 3-level scorer that fits well in our offensive scheme," Gustin noted. "She plays with a toughness and presence that elevates our group."
 
Vargas (6-3; Santa Ana, Calif.) earned 2024-25 Pacific Coast League MVP and first team all-Crestview League accolades after she averaged 14.4 points, 8.2 rebounds and 2.5 blocks per game at Canyon HS.

Vargas also brings international experience to the Trailblazer program as she played in the Mexico for the ADEMEBA USA team. In addition, she will be trying out for the Mexico National Team in 2026.  

"Kyara has great length and significantly impacts our defensive presence while also bringing a quality offensive skill set for her position," said Gustin.