As we gear up for the 2024-2025 women’s college basketball season, a wave of top-tier talent has transferred to new programs, promising to reshape team dynamics and bring fresh excitement to the court. From star forwards and versatile guards to powerhouse defenders, these 17 players are poised to make an impact this season. Here’s a look at the most exciting transfers who could dominate March Madness and potentially take their teams to new heights.
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1, 2. USC – Kiki Iriafen and Talia Von Oelhoffen
The University of Southern California has made major moves, bringing in Kiki Iriafen from Stanford and Talia Von Oelhoffen from Oregon State. Known for her agility and versatility, Iriafen has the skill to shine on both ends of the floor. Fans will be eager to see her form a powerful duo with rising star Juju Watkins, as both are likely contenders for the top WNBA draft picks.
Von Oelhoffen, renowned for her high basketball IQ and scoring prowess, brings a strong offensive and defensive package to the Trojans. Her strategic playmaking and defensive skills make her an invaluable addition, solidifying USC’s championship ambitions.
3, 4, 5. UCLA – Timea Gardiner, Janiah Barker, and Charlisse Leger-Walker
UCLA is ready for a strong season with the additions of Timea Gardiner, Janiah Barker, and Charlisse Leger-Walker. Gardiner’s standout NCAA tournament play for Oregon State showcased her court-stretching abilities, crucial for UCLA’s low-post strategy. Barker, a former Texas A&M player, is a skilled, versatile defender who excels in guarding multiple positions while contributing on offense.
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Coming from Washington State, Leger-Walker brings exceptional defensive reading and quick decision-making, solidifying UCLA’s backcourt. Fans can look forward to her creative offense, as she’s known for orchestrating scoring plays and setting up teammates. These three will undoubtedly contribute to UCLA’s pursuit of success.
6, 7. Notre Dame – Liatu King and Liza Karlen
Notre Dame bolstered its lineup with Liatu King and Liza Karlen. King, a former leading scorer at Pitt, is a formidable forward with a strong presence around the basket, known for her rebounding and defensive skills. Her versatility and rebounding prowess will be key in critical moments.
Karlen, who had a breakout season at Marquette, brings a relentless playing style and multi-dimensional skills, making her a solid two-way player. Her development over five years makes her a vital component in Notre Dame’s roster as she enters her graduate year.
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8. Georgia Amoore – Kentucky
Kentucky welcomes Georgia Amoore, a standout guard known for her fadeaway and step-back moves. Her scoring ability, speed, and court vision make her one of the most explosive players in the game. Amoore’s remarkable agility allows her to slip through defenses, creating her own shots and delivering spectacular plays that will thrill fans throughout the season.
9. Raegan Beers – Oklahoma
Raegan Beers, a powerful forward, brings an inside presence that Oklahoma sorely needs. Known for her efficiency, Beers led the NCAA last season in field goal percentage by overpowering defenders and finishing at the rim. She is expected to be a dominant force in the paint, providing the physical edge that can lead Oklahoma to greater success.
10. Lucy Olsen – Iowa
In need of a scoring punch, Iowa lands Lucy Olsen, who led the nation in three-pointers last season. Olsen’s shooting prowess and her ability to involve teammates make her a fantastic addition to the Hawkeyes. Known for her sharpshooting, she’s a player that can change the game from beyond the arc, providing Iowa with a potent offensive threat.
11. Laila Phelia – Texas
A thrilling athlete, Laila Phelia combines scoring ability with stellar defensive play, making her a perfect fit for Texas. Her court-stretching abilities and aggressiveness around the basket make her a versatile threat. Phelia’s all-around game will keep Texas competitive and dangerous against any opponent.
12. Hailey Van Lith – TCU
Hailey Van Lith (HVL) has a fierce competitive spirit and an instinct for seizing key moments, which will be invaluable to TCU. Known for her killer mentality, HVL can dominate games with her scoring and playmaking. Fans are eager to see her in action in her final college season, where she is expected to lead TCU to new heights.
13. Aaronnette Vonleh – Baylor
Aaronnette Vonleh is a powerful forward whose size and athleticism make her a force to be reckoned with. Known for her rebounding and shot-blocking abilities, she’s precisely what Baylor needs to control the paint. Vonleh’s offensive game has also developed, making her a dual threat who can dominate in crunch moments.
14. Kaitlyn Chen – UConn
Kaitlyn Chen joins UConn, bringing her shooting range and playmaking skills to a team with championship aspirations. With her deadly shooting from beyond the arc and her ability to set up scoring plays, Chen adds another dimension to UConn’s offensive arsenal. She’s a scoring threat who can deliver in high-pressure moments.
15. Deja Kelly – Oregon
A dynamic guard, Deja Kelly brings a unique blend of scoring and playmaking to Oregon. Her speed and agility enable her to create separation and finish at the rim. Fans can look forward to her explosive style and the way she influences the game on the West Coast.
16. Grace VanSlooten – Michigan State
Grace VanSlooten is a highly skilled forward with impressive scoring ability and shooting range. Her versatility allows her to stretch defenses and exploit mismatches. Known for making big plays, she’s expected to be a standout player who can make critical contributions to Michigan State’s success.
17. Taliah Scott – Auburn
Finally, Taliah Scott is a freshman phenom who’s ready to make an impact at Auburn. Known for her impressive scoring ability and court vision, Scott will be an essential player for Auburn’s success. As a key member of the Tigers’ backcourt, she is expected to be a breakout star and a player to watch as the season unfolds.
These top transfers promise to reshape the women’s college basketball landscape, bringing unique talents and strategic advantages to their new teams. As they step into their roles this season, fans and analysts alike are excited to see how these players will elevate their teams and make a name for themselves in the 2024-2025 season.
