Hawkeyes acquired more than just a five-star recruit when McKenna Woliczko committed to Iowa earlier this fall; they also acquired a recruiting tool.
Woliczko isn’t letting that fire go out now. In an effort to attract another top 2026 target to Iowa City, she is aggressively converting peer pressure into persuasion. Woliczko is the most highly regarded Iowa recruit since Caitlin Clark, so her commitment has already caused a stir.
However, that was insufficient. She made it apparent within weeks that she would use her connections to help move the ball in the direction of Iowa, particularly with five-star forward Addison Bjorn, who was in the same class. Bjorn and Woliczko have previously met, most notably on Team USA circuits.
Woliczko has an advantage because of this familiarity. She has been tactful and kind but direct in her public social media posts, tweeting things like “11:11 make a wish / @AddisonBjorn to @IowaWBB.”
Naturally, Woliczko’s social influence isn’t the only thing the Hawkeyes are depending on. Bjorn has also been aggressively courted by head coach Jan Jensen. Just last weekend, Bjorn traveled to Iowa to enjoy the football game, the campus atmosphere, and the whole Hawkeye experience.
However, Woliczko’s role is distinct because she can demonstrate to Bjorn what life with her in Iowa might entail, whether it be in the locker room, on the court, or during late-night conversations in the dorm.
Additionally, there is a symbolic component. Woliczko’s recruitment drive is a declaration that she wants to contribute to the development of an existing program rather than merely joining it. “I’m going to be heavily recruiting all of the girls that Iowa is recruiting … Addison … would definitely be someone I would want to play with,” she stated clearly. That kind of evangelistic role is uncommon among incoming freshmen or soon-to-be freshmen. However, McKenna doesn’t seem to mind. She has credibility, self-assurance, and now a platform.
Addison Bjorn is a valuable asset. Last season, she won Missouri’s Gatorade Player of the Year award with an average of about 22 points, 11.5 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 3.3 steals. Woliczko’s skill set would greatly benefit from that kind of versatility, which includes defensive motor, playmaking instincts, and toughness on the boards. Before either of them even enters the Big Ten, they will be a part of a top frontcourt duo if Iowa masters both.
A slight change in recruiting strategies is what you’re seeing. The car is still driven by coaches, yes. Woliczko and other recruits are currently riding shotgun and directing a portion of the route themselves. They are aware of the topics that today’s young celebrities discuss among themselves. They are aware of what thrills them. They take on the roles of recruiter, teammate, and program visionary.
There is risk, of course. Critics might argue that Woliczko went too far if Bjorn chooses to pick somewhere else. However, Iowa still has a top-6 national talent even in that scenario. Additionally, Woliczko’s gesture will live on. She is not visiting Iowa merely to take in the atmosphere, and that much is obvious. She wishes to assist in its construction.
Regardless of whether she ends up with Bjorn, this move ultimately demonstrates that McKenna Woliczko is not content to merely emulate celebrities. She aspires to leave her own mark and inspire others to follow in her footsteps.
