The early signing period for college basketball has brought significant excitement, with high school seniors officially committing to their future programs. In the 2026 class, several recruits stand out as potential game-changers, each poised to make an immediate impact on their respective teams. According to ESPN’s SC Next 100 rankings, these elite athletes are set to shape the landscape of women’s basketball in the upcoming seasons.
Notable Recruits Across Top Programs
The USC Trojans have secured the top recruit in Saniyah Hall, a guard ranked first in the SC Next 100. Under coach Lindsay Gottlieb, USC has consistently attracted high-caliber talent, marking Hall as the third No. 1 recruit in four years. Hall’s impressive credentials include being named MVP at the U19 FIBA Women’s World Cup. Her scoring ability will be critical as she joins a talented roster that includes last year’s top signee, Jazzy Davidson, and returning star JuJu Watkins, who is recovering from an ACL injury. This dynamic trio has the potential to form one of the strongest perimeter groups in the nation.
In Texas, the Longhorns have welcomed Aaliah Spaight, the 20th-ranked player in the SC Next 100, who is anticipated to play a pivotal role on the team. Spaight’s skill set closely resembles that of current senior Rori Harmon, known for her impressive assists record. During the Nike EYBL July Nationals, Spaight led all scorers with an average of 26.3 points and 5.1 assists per game, showcasing her ability to dominate on the court. As she develops her range and defensive skills, Spaight is expected to solidify her place in Texas’s lineup.
The Duke Blue Devils have also made a significant addition with guard Bella Flemings, ranked 16th nationally. Coach Kara Lawson is in need of fresh talent as she prepares to replace senior Ashlon Jackson. Flemings, at 6 feet tall, is recognized for her shooting prowess and ability to handle the ball, making her a strong candidate for early playing time alongside the highly touted Autumn Fleary.
Promising Futures for Other Programs
At Notre Dame, Jacy Abii, ranked 9th, stands out as an impactful addition. Her versatility and physicality will complement superstar Hannah Hidalgo, who is expected to lead the team in scoring once again. Abii’s capabilities extend to guarding multiple positions, making her a valuable player as Notre Dame aims to build a championship-caliber roster.
Meanwhile, the Kentucky Wildcats have landed Maddyn Greenway, the 13th-ranked player. Coach Kenny Brooks is known for his ability to develop point guards, and Greenway’s competitive nature and athleticism align well with the Wildcats’ style of play. Her family background in sports—her father was an NFL linebacker—adds to her determination to succeed at the collegiate level.
Clemson’s recruitment has gained momentum with Trinity Jones, the 11th-ranked guard. As Shawn Poppie’s first five-star recruit, Jones is expected to be a cornerstone player for the Tigers. Her recovery from a knee injury has positioned her to become the focal point of the team’s offense, which has been built around complementary players.
In Indiana, Gigi Battle, ranked 32nd, is poised to fill a significant gap left by departing senior Shay Ciezki. With her competitive spirit and improved shooting capabilities, Battle’s arrival is well-timed for the Hoosiers as they aim to maintain their competitive edge.
The UConn Huskies have secured Olivia Vukosa, ranked third, who has the potential to become another standout in the program’s storied history. With an impressive combination of size and skill, Vukosa can seamlessly integrate into the team’s existing lineup while learning from established forwards.
As the early signing period concludes, the potential for these recruits to transform their programs is evident. With each player bringing unique talents and backgrounds, the 2026 women’s basketball season promises to be one of excitement and high-level competition across the NCAA.
