Texas Secures Dual Top-10 Talents as Crittendon, Bjorn Headline Dynamic 2026 Recruiting Class Landscape

The collegiate women’s basketball recruiting landscape for the class of 2026 continues to solidify, with 16 of 17 five-star recruits having announced their decisions as of late November 2025. The latest significant commitment came a day after the early signing period, with No. 10 Addison Bjorn choosing the Texas Longhorns, marking a pivotal moment for the program which also secured No. 8 Brihanna Crittendon. These pledges, alongside other top-tier talents aligning with powerhouse programs, offer early insights into the future competitive balance of NCAA women’s basketball. While these athletes will not don college uniforms until the 2026-27 season, informed projections can be made regarding their integration into chosen systems and the strategic implications for their respective programs. SportsBreakNews.com will continue to monitor and update this analysis as further commitments from the SC Next 100 class of 2026 are announced.

Saniyah Hall, G (No. 1)
Committed to: USC Trojans
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Commitment date: July 25, 2025

Background: Saniyah Hall, the consensus No. 1 recruit in the 2026 class, announced her commitment to the USC Trojans on ESPN’s "NBA Today" directly following an official visit to the campus. Hall, who chose USC over finalists UCLA and North Carolina, is a dominant force on the court. She previously showcased her talents at Montverde Academy in Florida before transferring closer to home to Spire Academy in Geneva, Ohio, for her senior high school season. Hall’s international pedigree is equally impressive; she was named MVP of the U19 FIBA Women’s World Cup, where she led Team USA to another gold medal. Throughout the tournament, she averaged 19.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 2.9 steals per game, shooting an efficient 52.6% from the field and 39.3% from beyond the arc, demonstrating her versatile scoring ability.

How she fits: Hall is projected to join a formidable 2026-27 USC roster that includes 2025 five-star Jasmine Davidson (also a U19 gold medalist), current standout JuJu Watkins, and 2024 No. 6 recruit Kennedy Smith, a 2025 FIBA Americup Gold medalist. This potent combination of talent is expected to give the Trojans a WNBA/European-style roster, characterized by exceptional versatility and scoring prowess. Each player, while having a distinct niche, possesses elite ball-handling, scoring, and defensive capabilities. Hall’s arrival will bolster USC’s perimeter attack and provide a dynamic complement to Watkins, potentially alleviating some offensive burden from the star guard as she continues her recovery from an ACL injury. The Trojans are also actively targeting No. 2 recruit Oliviyah Edwards to strengthen their interior presence in this class.

How Hall must adjust: Despite her immediate readiness to contribute—with previous discussions even suggesting a reclassification to the 2025 class—Hall will face adjustments at the collegiate level, particularly on the defensive end. As a wing who often plays at forward, mirroring her role with Team USA, she will need to refine her defensive assignments and physicality against college-level opposition. Accustomed to being the primary offensive focal point, Hall will also need to adapt to sharing responsibilities with other elite scorers like Watkins, embracing a complementary yet aggressive role within a star-studded lineup.

How USC is positioning itself in the recruiting race: Hall’s commitment underscores USC’s growing dominance as a recruiting powerhouse, significantly amplified by its brand strength and impending move to the Big Ten Conference. Under Coach Lindsay Gottlieb, the Trojans have consistently secured top talent, including No. 1 recruit JuJu Watkins (2023), the No. 1 recruiting class in 2024, and No. 1 player Jasmine Davidson (2025). Hall’s pledge continues this remarkable streak, signalling USC’s intent to maintain a perennial championship-contending program.

Oliviyah Edwards, F (No. 2)
Committed to: Tennessee Lady Volunteers
Commitment Date: Sept. 13, 2025

Background: Oliviyah Edwards, a 6-foot-3 forward from Washington, committed to the Tennessee Lady Volunteers, selecting them over a competitive field that included USC, Washington, Florida, South Carolina, and LSU. Edwards, who previously attended Elite Prep and has transferred to Garfield High School in Washington for her senior year, is widely regarded as the most elite athlete among the 2026 five-stars. Her ceiling is exceptionally high due to significant improvements across all facets of her game over the past year. During the Adidas 3SSB circuit, she led the Northwest Greyhounds to the Final Four, averaging 17 points and 7.8 rebounds. Her breakout performance in May, including a thrilling victory over 2027 No. 1 Kaleena Smith’s 7 Days Basketball, drew widespread attention from college coaches. Edwards’ ability to finish around the rim with either hand—including above the rim—and her smooth perimeter jumper distinguish her. Defensively, her length, lateral quickness, and verticality allow her to guard multiple positions and challenge shots effectively.

How she fits: Edwards’ combination of athleticism and skill aligns perfectly with Coach Kim Caldwell’s system at Tennessee, known for its up-tempo pace and full-court defensive pressure. Her style is comparable to current Tennessee senior Zee Spearman, a lengthy forward with a strong three-point shot, and NC State transfer Khamil Pierre. Edwards’ high activity level, disruptive defensive potential, and playmaking ability in transition are expected to make her an immediate fan favourite in Knoxville.

The significance of Edwards’ commitment to Tennessee: Edwards’ commitment marks the first for Tennessee in the 2026 class and represents a significant win for Coach Caldwell. She will join the No. 2 recruiting class of 2025, adding a versatile forward to an already strong group of elite perimeter players. Edwards is the highest-rated recruit to commit to Tennessee in the Caldwell era, and the highest since former coach Holly Warlick signed No. 2 Jordan Horston (2019) and No. 2 Evina Westbrook (2017). The Lady Vols are actively pursuing other five-star talents, including Trinity Jones (No. 11), Brihanna Crittendon (No. 8), Jacy Abii (No. 9), and Bella Flemings (No. 16), aiming to build a formidable roster.

Olivia Vukosa, P (No. 3)
Committed to: UConn Huskies
Commitment date: Oct. 21, 2025

Background: Olivia Vukosa, a 6-foot-4 versatile post player from Whitestone, New York, committed to the UConn Huskies, choosing them over LSU, Texas, Ohio State, and South Carolina. As the top-ranked post player in her class, Vukosa continues the pipeline of talent from Queens-based Christ the King High School to Storrs, a tradition that includes legendary UConn alumnae like Sue Bird and Tina Charles. Vukosa brings extensive international experience, having represented Croatia in various FIBA competitions. She participated in the 2023 U16 Women’s European Championship, the 2024 Women’s World Cup, and most recently earned a bronze medal at the 2025 U20 EuroBasket B Division, where she averaged 15.6 points and 9.1 rebounds, highlighted by a dominant 35-point, 22-rebound performance in the third-place game against Bulgaria.

How she fits: Vukosa perfectly embodies the traditionally multifaceted post player favoured by UConn Coach Geno Auriemma, fitting the mould of players who have anchored championship teams. UConn’s methodical roster construction often identifies a cornerstone player for each class, from Breanna Stewart (2012) and Napheesa Collier (2015) to Paige Bueckers (2020), Azzi Fudd (2021), and Sarah Strong (2024). Vukosa’s skill set extends beyond traditional post play; she is a competent decision-maker and passer with the ability to operate outside the three-point line, reminiscent of Stefanie Dolson’s role supporting Stewart during UConn’s title runs. As a true center, Vukosa will enable UConn to continue running its offense through a big who can draw defensive attention and space the floor for speedy playmakers. She is expected to complement Sarah Strong and enhance her effectiveness, much like Collier did with Stewart. Her playing style should also integrate well with 2025 recruit Blanca Quiñones, who shares similar international experience, and open up opportunities for guards like Kayleigh Heckel and KK Arnold. Vukosa’s high ceiling suggests she could challenge Saniyah Hall for the No. 1 ranking by the end of her senior season.

Kate Harpring, PG (No. 4)
Committed to: North Carolina Tar Heels
Commitment date: Aug. 9, 2025

Background: Kate Harpring, a Georgia native from Marist School, committed to the North Carolina Tar Heels, choosing them over Iowa, South Carolina, and other prominent programs. Harpring has had an exceptional year, highlighted by being named MVP of the inaugural Overtime Select competition and securing an NIL deal with Adidas. During her junior year, she averaged 32.3 points and 10.6 rebounds, and for her Adidas 3SSB team, Southeast All Stars, she contributed 19.0 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 3.5 assists. A member of the U19 5-on-5 team, Harpring helped Team USA win gold at the FIBA U19 Women’s World Cup, averaging 8.3 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 2.4 assists across seven games. Her athletic lineage is notable; her father, Matt Harpring, was a Mr. Georgia honoree, a three-time first-team All-ACC selection at Georgia Tech, and an 11-year NBA veteran. Kate has already surpassed some of her father’s high school scoring records, and her brother Luke plays football at Georgia Tech.

How she fits: Harpring, a physical and competitive scorer, has risen to become a top-5 player in her class. Her commitment provides North Carolina with its highest-rated recruit since No. 4 Ciera Toomey in 2023. She is expected to fill a critical perimeter role, offering strong rebounding, hard-nosed defense, and multifaceted scoring. She is projected to seamlessly transition into a role previously held by players like Lexi Donarski and Indya Nivar, complementing point guard Lanie Grant and wing Nyla Brooks effectively. Following the Tar Heels’ loss in the recruitment of No. 1 Saniyah Hall, Harpring becomes a foundational piece for Coach Courtney Banghart’s program, aiming to build another strong recruiting class after their fifth-ranked 2025 group, which featured Brooks. UNC has already secured No. 48 Irene Guiamatsia, a 6-4 forward known for her active play around the rim, shot-challenging defense, and improved offensive touch, drawing comparisons to former UNC player Maria Gakdeng.

McKenna Woliczko, W (No. 6)
Committed to: Iowa Hawkeyes
Commitment date: Oct. 1, 2025

Background: McKenna Woliczko, a 6-2 forward from Archbishop Mitty in California, chose the Iowa Hawkeyes over South Carolina, Ohio State, and USC. Prior to a knee injury that sidelined her for most of her junior year and the entire summer club season, Woliczko had a stellar campaign, leading Mitty to the Nike TOC Championship. She has also represented Team USA at the 2023 FIBA Americas U16 Championship and the 2024 FIBA U17 World Cup, earning All-Star Five honours at both events. Woliczko is renowned for her relentless motor and effectiveness in the paint, excelling in rim runs, offensive rebounds, and putbacks. Before her injury, she had shown significant improvements in her shooting range and ability to attack off the dribble.

How she fits: Woliczko is the first commitment for Coach Jan Jensen’s Iowa team in the 2026 class. With current forwards Jada Gyamfi and Hannah Stuelke set to graduate, Woliczko is anticipated to have ample opportunity for significant playing time and an immediate impact upon her arrival. The Hawkeyes are also still in contention for five-star Addison Bjorn and four-star Amari Byles. Iowa’s 2025 class was ranked 22nd, highlighted by the signing of five-star guard Addison Deal.

Jordyn Jackson, G (No. 7)
Committed to: Maryland Terrapins
Commitment date: Aug. 9, 2025

Background: Jordyn Jackson, a strong wing player, committed to the Maryland Terrapins, selecting them over TCU, Alabama, Miami, South Carolina, and Ohio State. Jackson established herself early as a potential star of the 2026 class through her success at perennial top-five program Sidwell Friends. On July 15, she announced her transfer to St. James Academy, following her high school and club coach, Tamika Dudley. Jackson solidified her five-star status this past year by adding advanced ball-handling and shooting skills, alongside a nuanced change of pace. She is an explosive, high-level defender and rebounder, and her enhanced ball skills make her slashing, physical style to the rim even more difficult to guard. She most recently averaged 15.0 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 2.1 assists at July’s Nike Nationals in Chicago.

How she fits: Maryland, under Coach Brenda Frese, employs an up-tempo and aggressive scoring system. ESPN previously compared Jackson to Maryland’s Kaylene Smikle due to their similar size, build, and scoring ability. With Smikle graduating, Jackson is well-positioned to step into that role for the 2026-27 season. She is expected to complement returning guards Kyndal Walker and Oluchi Okananwa, as well as shooter Rainey Welson. Jackson’s commitment is the first for Maryland in the 2026 class, and Coach Frese will now look to bolster the interior and potentially add a complementary combo guard.

Brihanna Crittendon, W (No. 8)
Committed to: Texas Longhorns
Commitment date: November 19, 2025

Background: Brihanna Crittendon, a 6-3 wing, represents the quintessential face-up forward in contemporary basketball. She committed to the Texas Longhorns, choosing them over Tennessee, TCU, Colorado, Oregon, Washington, Ohio State, and UCLA. Crittendon is noted for her length, agility, and keen ability to seek shots from beyond the arc. Her summer performance with the Jason Kidd Select squad on the Power 24 circuit highlighted her dedication to rebounding and defensive effort, qualities that, coupled with her scoring ability, made her a significant stock riser in her class. During her junior season at Riverdale Ridge (Colo.), she averaged 26.4 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 2.7 assists, with impressive shooting splits of 57% from the field, 33% from three-point range, and 73% from the free-throw line.

How she fits: Stylistically, Crittendon will provide Texas with a sharp-shooting forward, fitting seamlessly into a system already rich with talented scoring options. She will join a 2026 class that includes dynamic guard Aaliah Spaight (SC Next 100 No. 20) and sharpshooting guard Amalia Holguin (SC Next 100 No. 57). Texas, under Coach Vic Schaefer, is known for its size and defensive intensity, and Crittendon adds versatile size and skill. She offers the possibility of interchangeable parts with current freshman Aaliyah Crump and star Madison Booker, all forwards with guard-like skills who can stretch the floor and defend multiple positions. Her ability to operate inside and out will enhance Texas’s offensive versatility and defensive flexibility.

Jacy Abii, W (No. 9)
Committed to: Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Commitment date: Oct. 4, 2025

Background: Jacy Abii, a 6-2 wing, is a modern forward capable of initiating offense while also contributing significantly inside and controlling the boards. She committed to the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, choosing them over finalists Texas, Tennessee, UCLA, and LSU. Abii missed her junior high school season and most of the club season due to an ACL injury suffered last summer on the Overtime Select circuit. However, she showed signs of returning to her previous form late this past summer. She is an exceptional passer with advanced court vision and possesses a reliable three-point shot. Before transferring to Legion Prep, Abii led her Frisco Liberty program to back-to-back state championships during her freshman and sophomore years.

How she fits: Abii’s commitment provides Notre Dame with its third pledge in the 2026 class, joining No. 30 Isabella Ragone, a small forward from Georgia, and No. 81 Isabella Sangha, a power forward from Florida. Abii significantly bolsters an already strong frontcourt class, bringing a unique blend of versatility and physicality. Under Coach Niele Ivey, Notre Dame retooled its roster for the current season via the transfer portal, but the team is projected to be guard-heavy when the 2026 class arrives. This dynamic creates ample opportunity for Abii and other forwards to secure significant minutes and make immediate contributions in the frontcourt.

Addison Bjorn, W (No. 10)
Committed to: Texas Longhorns
Commitment date: November 20, 2025

Background: Addison Bjorn, a 6-foot-1 wing, committed to the Texas Longhorns, selecting them over Iowa, North Carolina, UConn, Kansas, Notre Dame, and Duke. Bjorn is a three-time gold medalist with Team USA, having participated in the 2025 Women’s U19 World Cup, the 2024 Women’s U17 World Cup, and the 2023 Women’s U16 AmeriCup. On the Nike EYBL circuit this spring, playing for All Iowa Attack, she averaged 17.6 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.1 assists, demonstrating remarkable efficiency with 65% shooting from the field. Bjorn possesses an advanced handle for her traditional long and lanky wing build. She has steadily improved her ability to pull up off the dribble and her willingness to shoot three-pointers over the past two summers.

How she fits: Bjorn’s most notable attribute is her adaptability; she has consistently demonstrated the capacity to be an offensive focal point while also excelling in an elite supporting role when required. This versatility is highly valuable in the transition from high school to college. Her ability to guard multiple positions with her length and toughness will be crucial for early playing time within Coach Vic Schaefer’s demanding Texas program. Bjorn will be an interchangeable piece, pairing effectively with current freshman Aaliyah Crump and star Madison Booker, as well as fellow 2026 top-10 commit Brihanna Crittendon. Bjorn’s offensive skill set is expected to enable the Longhorns to play faster and spread the floor more effectively in the future, especially with shifty guard Aaliah Spaight also joining next season and current speedy sophomore guard Bryanna Preston likely taking on increased ball-handling responsibilities. Overall, Bjorn’s commitment significantly solidifies Texas’s position as a leading recruiting class in college women’s basketball.

Trinity Jones, G (No. 11)
Committed to: Clemson Tigers
Commitment date: Oct. 28, 2025

Background: Trinity Jones, a 6-1 slashing wing, is recognized as one of the most elite athletes in her class. She committed to the Clemson Tigers, choosing them over Tennessee, LSU, TCU, Oklahoma, and UCLA. Her commitment marks the first five-star recruit for second-year head coach Shawn Poppie at Clemson and the program’s highest-rated commit since Ruby Whitehorn (No. 15 in the class of 2022). Jones missed her previous high school season and a significant portion of the summer due to a knee injury in May 2024. However, upon her return to the court with her Mac Irvin Fire squad in the spring and summer, she quickly re-established herself as a highly coveted player, relentlessly attacking the rim and excelling in transition. Jones is a high-level multi-positional defender who brings an unmatched energy to the floor. Prior to her injury, she was a member of the 2023 U16 USA Basketball FIBA Americas team that won gold in Mexico, averaging 9.5 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game.

How she fits: Under Coach Shawn Poppie, Clemson is rapidly emerging as an attractive destination for top talent. The Tigers have now secured four top-50 commits in this class, including No. 27 Kimora Fields, No. 39 Julia Scott, and No. 50 Meeyah Green. This follows last year’s class, which featured two top-100 signees in Holland Harris and Amaia Jackson. This significant upgrade in overall talent is expected to help the Tigers make substantial strides in the competitive ACC and beyond. With the current Clemson roster featuring eight players who are either seniors or juniors, this 2026 class, led by Jones, will play a crucial role in replacing departing talent and shaping the program’s future trajectory.

Autumn Fleary, PG (No. 12)
Committed to: Duke Blue Devils
Commitment date: Oct. 18, 2025

Background: Autumn Fleary, the top-ranked point guard in the 2026 class, committed to the Duke Blue Devils, selecting them over LSU, North Carolina, and UCLA. This commitment represented Duke’s fourth top-50 and second five-star commit in a single week. The 5-foot-7 Fleary had a standout summer, leading her Team Takeover squad to the Nike EYBL Championship in July, where she averaged 19.1 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 3.1 assists. She is also a key player for perennial top-10 high school program Sidwell Friends (DC).

How she fits: Fleary is a quintessential true point guard, excelling in ball-handling, breaking down defenders in pick-and-roll situations, and, most importantly, demonstrating a winning mentality. Her commitment, alongside No. 16 Bella Flemings (who announced her commitment just days prior), No. 25 Sanai Green, and No. 43 Taylor Sofilkanich, establishes Duke’s 2026 class as a projected top-5 recruiting class nationally. This group provides a balanced foundation: a true point guard (Fleary), two strong interchangeable guards (Flemings and Green), and a post anchor (Sofilkanich). When combined with 2025 recruit Emilee Skinner, redshirt freshman Arianna Roberson, and sophomores Toby Fournier and Riley Nelson, this Duke lineup is expected to contend for future Final Fours. Fleary is poised to be an excellent replacement for senior guard Taina Mair, fitting seamlessly into Coach Kara Lawson’s system, which emphasizes defensive prowess, particularly on-ball pressure for 94 feet. Her contributions will be vital for a Duke team that reached the Elite Eight last year.

Maddyn Greenway, PG (No. 13)
Committed to: Kentucky Wildcats
Commitment date: Nov. 16, 2024

Background: Maddyn Greenway, a 5-foot-8 multisport athlete excelling in basketball, soccer, and track, committed to the Kentucky Wildcats in November, choosing them over finalists Iowa, Duke, Clemson, UCLA, and Stanford. Her commitment was a significant victory for second-year Wildcats coach Kenny Brooks, adding a second top-20 commit alongside No. 18 Savvy Swords. Greenway is one of Minnesota’s most decorated high school athletes, having won state championships in all three sports and recently earning a gold medal with the 2025 USA Women’s Basketball U19 World Cup team. She is also the reigning Minnesota Gatorade Player of the Year. Her athletic heritage is strong: her mother, Jenni, ran track at Iowa and coaches her high school track team, while her father, Chad, played 11 years in the NFL after starring as a linebacker for the Iowa Hawkeyes.

How she fits: Kentucky’s point guards under Coach Kenny Brooks are expected to be major playmakers, a role Greenway is uniquely suited for. She applies immediate pressure on opposing defenses and possesses the ability to score at all three levels. Defensively, she is an ultimate competitor, known for her ball pressure and relentless hustle in rotations.

What’s next: Greenway is tasked with becoming the next star point guard for Brooks, following in the footsteps of Georgia Amoore, who led Virginia Tech to a Final Four under Brooks in 2023 before both moved to Kentucky. Brooks aims to build a similarly successful program in his second year at Kentucky, with Greenway as a central figure.

Olivia Jones, G (No. 14)
Committed to: Vanderbilt Commodores
Commitment Date: Oct. 31, 2025

Background: Olivia Jones, a 5-foot-11 guard from Long Island Lutheran in New York, committed to the Vanderbilt Commodores, choosing them over Miami, North Carolina, and Maryland. Jones is recognized as one of the preeminent guards in the Northeast, having played for Exodus in the Nike EYBL circuit. She earned a gold medal with Team USA in the U16 FIBA AmeriCup over the summer, averaging 8.0 points, 3.8 assists, 3.3 rebounds, and 2.2 steals. Notably young for her grade, Jones could technically be a member of the 2027 class and will be eligible for the U17 team after high school graduation.

How she fits: Vanderbilt’s current headliner is sophomore guard Mikayla Blakes. Jones is stylistically similar to Blakes in her developmental trajectory: both emerged as talented, quick guards who refined their fundamental skills over time to become top national prospects. Jones and Blakes are projected to form a complementary backcourt duo for several seasons under Coach Shea Ralph, who employs a fast-paced, read-and-react offensive system. Both are expected to be dedicated defenders and aggressive offensive players. Vanderbilt is also actively recruiting No. 35 Jhai Johnson (California) and physical four-star Sther Ubaka from DME in Florida.

Lilly Williams, P (No. 15)
Committed to: Michigan State Spartans
Commitment date: Feb. 4, 2024

Background: Lilly Williams’ path to becoming one of the nation’s top post players is unique. She was homeschooled until her upcoming senior season, when she will attend Howell High School in Michigan. Instead of a shoe circuit team, she played for an independent club program, the Michigan Mystics P24. At 6-foot-5, Williams possesses rare athleticism for her size, including the ability to dunk. She is not only skilled in her current play but also holds significant untapped potential.

How she fits: Williams committed to Michigan State in early 2024, having received offers from numerous Big Ten programs and other national contenders. Upon her arrival, she will be the tallest player on the roster, expected to anchor a defense that thrives on pressure and generating turnovers. As a mobile and physically strong interior player, Williams will provide the Spartans with a true center around whom to build their offense. The program will continue to seek a point guard and scoring guard to complete its 2026 recruiting class.

Bella Flemings, G (No. 16)
Committed to: Duke Blue Devils
Commitment date: October 13, 2025

Background: Bella Flemings, a 6-foot guard, committed to Duke, choosing them over Tennessee, Baylor, TCU, and Miami. Flemings has maintained a consistent presence in the top 20 rankings due to her reliable play, maturity, and high basketball IQ. She was identified as a talent early, playing years above her age with her club program (UA Next’s SA Finest) and has steadily refined her game acumen. This summer on the Under Armour circuit, she averaged 18.6 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 3 assists, with an impressive 42.2% shooting from three-point range. She is also the younger sister of Kingston Flemings, a former five-star recruit in the boys’ 2025 class who will play at Houston this season.

How she fits: Coach Kara Lawson, recently named the head coach of USA Basketball’s women’s national team, favors interchangeable guards who can both shoot and initiate offense from the perimeter, a role Flemings is well-equipped to fill. She joins a class that includes No. 25 guard Sanai Green and No. 43 post Taylor Sofilkanich. Green, despite missing her junior year due to a knee injury, is a physically strong guard with impressive fundamentals, similar to Flem