As we prepare for the 2024-2025 women’s basketball season, here are some transfers you should have on your radar.
First, let’s talk about the programs that hit the jackpot.
1, 2. USC – Kiki Iriafen and Talia Von Oelhoffen
Coming over from Stanford, Kiki Iriafen is an emerging star known for her versatility on the court. With her impressive skill set, she can make an impact both offensively and defensively. Before potentially being drafted as a top pick, fans get to witness Kiki and Juju Watkins join alliances.
As for Talia Von Oelhoffen, she’s known for her high IQ and knockdown scoring mentality at Oregon State. Her ability to initiate the offense, facilitate and defend makes her a valuable asset for the Trojans.
These big-time moves have put the Trojans in title contention.
RANKINGS: Preseason AP Top 25 Poll
3, 4, 5. UCLA – Timea Gardiner, Janiah Barker and Charlisse Leger-Walker
Timea Gardiner’s game commanded attention during the NCAA tournament with Oregon State. Her ability to stretch the floor is going to be vital for Lauren Betts to operate down low.
Janiah Barker is a fierce competitor with a well-rounded skill set that we’ve seen during her time with Texas A&M. Her ability to defend multiple positions while contributing offensively makes her an all-around player to watch.
Coming from Washington State, Charlisse Leger-Walker is an incredibly skilled guard with a high basketball IQ. Her ability to read defenses and make quick decisions sets her apart. Fans will enjoy watching her play, especially her ability to facilitate the offense and create plays for her teammates.
Look for all three new Bruins as key contributors to UCLA’s success.
6, 7. Notre Dame – Liatu King and Liza Karlen
new to the Irish but already on the radar @kate_koval13 & Liza Karlen have been named to the @accwbb Newcomer Watch List. pic.twitter.com/zfgs3Qmogz
— Notre Dame Women’s Basketball (@ndwbb) October 15, 2024
Liatu King is a versatile forward with a strong presence in the paint. Her rebounding and defensive skills make her a valuable asset. As Pitt’s former leading scorer, expect to see her contribute significantly on both ends of the court and make her mark in crucial moments.
Liza Karlen is a tenacious player who can contribute on both offense and defense, making her well-rounded. Liza had a breakout year in her senior year with Marquette, and she’ll look to continue to build with the Fighting Irish for her 5th year.
Now let’s talk about individual players (in no particular order):
8. Georgia Amoore, Kentucky
Preseason All-SEC First Team. ?@georgia_amoore
More: https://t.co/2SHIzcDxPC pic.twitter.com/gxczncXOzy
— Kentucky Women’s Basketball (@KentuckyWBB) October 14, 2024
Georgia Amoore does not get talked about enough. Her ability to score and facilitate, along with her iconic fadeaways and step-backs, is one of a kind. Her speed and size allow her to navigate through defenses, work off screens, and create her own shots. Fans should anticipate her explosive plays and ability to take over games.
9. Raegan Beers, Oklahoma
Raegan Beers is a powerful forward with a solid inside presence. She’s one of the most efficient posts in the country, leading the NCAA last year in field goal percentage by the way she buries defenders and finishes around the rim.
LOOKING BACK: Complete championship history of DI women’s hoops
10. Lucy Olsen, Iowa
Iowa doesn’t have to worry about a drop-off in scoring, securing last year’s top three-point scorer in the nation. There’s not a shot Lucy Olsen hasn’t seen that she doesn’t like, and she also finds ways to get her teammates involved. Look for her to shine bright in her new chapter as a Hawkeye.
11. Laila Phelia, Texas
Laila Phelia is an exciting athlete who excels in scoring but hangs her hat on defense. I couldn’t think of a better fit than Texas. Her ability to stretch the floor while shooting and driving to the basket makes her a versatile threat.
12. Hailey Van Lith, TCU
The Van Lith effect.#GoFrogs pic.twitter.com/kOCRwFF7XC
— TCU Women’s Basketball (@tcuwbb) October 21, 2024
Hailey Van Lith (HVL) is starting a new chapter at TCU. HVL is known for her competitiveness and killer mentality, as she can take over games and make pivotal plays in crucial moments. Hailey is expected to play in her natural position, and I can’t wait to watch her shine in her last ride.
13. Aaronnette Vonleh, Baylor
Aaronnette Vonleh’s size and athleticism make her a force to be reckoned with. She’s an excellent rebounder and shot-blocker, and her offensive game is just what Baylor needed down low. Expect Aaronnette to be a key contributor on both ends and a player who can dominate in crucial stretches of games.
14. Kaitlyn Chen, UConn
UConn is getting back to its championship ways. Geno Auriemma might have cracked the code by adding more scoring with Kaitlyn Chen. Her range and quick release make her a dangerous threat from beyond the arc.
15. Deja Kelly, Oregon
All hail ?
? 2x WBCA All-American
? 3x All-ACC First Team
? 4 NCAA Tournament appearances
? 8th in UNC history with over 1,800 career points #GoDucks x @dejakelly25 pic.twitter.com/mi2YASd6jg— Oregon Women’s Basketball (@OregonWBB) May 7, 2024
Deja Kelly is a dynamic guard with a unique blend of scoring and playmaking. Her speed and quickness allow her to create separation and finish at the rim. Fans should be excited to watch her impact the game on the West Coast.
16. Grace VanSlooten, Michigan State
Grace VanSlooten is an outstanding forward with excellent shooting range and scoring ability. Her versatility allows her to stretch defenses and create mismatches. She’s a big-time player who’s capable of making big-time plays.
17. Taliah Scott, Auburn
Taliah Scott was a phenomenal freshman who might have gone under the radar in such a loaded class. Taliah is ready to take on year two with Auburn as a skilled guard with scoring prowess and playmaking skills, which will be crucial for her team’s success. Look for her to be a key player in the Tigers’ backcourt.
Other transfers worth mentioning: Ajae Petty (Ohio State) and Shayeann Day-Wilson (LSU).
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