Five-star forward McKenna Woliczko has formally committed to the Iowa Hawkeyes women’s basketball program, which is huge news coming out of Iowa City this morning.
The Hawkeyes were selected by the top-10 nationally ranked big man over South Carolina, Ohio State, and USC. According to Rivals, Woliczko, a 6’2″ forward from San Jose, California’s Archbishop Mitty High School, is ranked sixth in the class of 2026. This is a huge recruiting victory for Iowa, demonstrating that it is still actively seeking top talent in the country. A Choice After Months of Deliberation
This was not a hasty choice. Woliczko’s final selections reportedly came down to Iowa and South Carolina, and Iowa’s pitch, which offered both role flexibility and a clear route into the lineup, obviously struck a chord. After meeting with coaches and touring the campus, she decided to commit on Instagram today.
Gold Pants with a Black Heart It’s the type of conclusion you anticipate when a program demonstrates to a young prospect that they are committed, serious, and prepared to build a relationship with her. This continues the trend of Iowa’s recruiting momentum.
What She Provides
Woliczko is particularly intriguing in today’s women’s game because of her ability to score, rebound, and stretch the court. She was averaging high numbers and attracting attention as one of the most polished forwards in her class before an ACL injury ended her junior season.
She will probably fill in at position four at Iowa, continuing the work that more recent contributors have left behind. She could become a matchup nightmare, slipping in and out based on the opponent, lineup, or game flow, but the coaching staff also promises opportunities at the three. Positional versatility like that is invaluable.
Implications for Iowa This is validation rather than just one player joining the roster.
With this dedication, Iowa, which is still getting used to life following the high-profile departure of big names and the shadows they cast, demonstrates its ability to compete for top recruits. The program’s recruitment trajectory just took a significant turn for the better. It also aids in fan base mobilization. Optimism, enthusiasm, and momentum are infectious. Woliczko was convinced by Iowa’s facilities, culture, and vision that she could not only grow but also take center stage.
Gazing Ahead A new era in Iowa women’s basketball recruiting may begin if Woliczko fully recovers from her injury and performs as expected, which is unlikely. Iowa may frequently be in the running for Big Ten titles and deep NCAA runs if you combine her with other elite targets and transfers.
How she fits in, adjusts, and develops at the next level will be the true test. However, Hawkeye fans now have cause to rejoice, believe, and get excited because of this commitment. Now, the horizon is brighter and the foundation is stronger.
