Earthquake is hiring a 5-star forward. Leelee Bell Leaves Oklahoma for Iowa—The Hawkeyes Acquire One of the Best Talents of 2026
One of the best high school players in the country, Leelee Bell, has formally switched her commitment from Oklahoma to Iowa in a startling turn of events that is shaking the women’s college basketball community. One of the greatest recruiting victories in recent memory for head coach Jan Jensen and her staff came when the five-star star announced she would join the Hawkeyes women’s basketball program starting with the 2026–2027 campaign.
Bell, a 6-foot-3 do-it-all wing from Minot High School in Minot, North Dakota, is ranked No. 18 overall in the country and is considered one of the best forwards in the Class of 2026 by several recruiting sites. Bell, one of the most decorated players in North Dakota history, has dominated the prep scene thanks to her unique combination of size, athleticism, and skill. Earlier this year, she broke the state’s all-time girls’ scoring record by scoring more than 2,400 points in her career, and she’s not done yet.
Bell led Minot to another deep postseason run last season, averaging 27 points, 11 rebounds, and 4 assists per game. Long before her senior year, she was well-known across the country for her ability to defend multiple positions, control the boards, and score from all three levels.
Bell had originally committed to Oklahoma because of her close relationship with the Sooners’ coaching staff and the welcoming atmosphere in Norman. However, she felt an irresistible pull toward Iowa City after giving it some more thought and speaking with several Iowa staff members.
In her announcement, Bell stated, “It came down to fit.” I’ve always followed my instincts, and this time, my heart told me that Iowa is the right place for me. It felt natural given the relationship with Coach Bluder and her team, the culture they’ve established, and the way they train players. There, I feel comfortable.
Her choice is a huge boost for Iowa, which has been reloading with elite recruits since Caitlin Clark’s run for national attention. Bell gives the Hawkeyes another long, adaptable, intelligent forward who can have an impact on the game on both ends of the court. Her presence might be essential to keeping Iowa among the nation’s and the Big Ten’s top programs.
Bell’s flip is one of the biggest commitments made thus far in the 2026 cycle, according to recruiting insiders. As evidence that the Hawkeyes’ recent success and national brand are appealing to the next generation of talent, it represents further momentum for Iowa on the recruiting trail.
One Midwest scout told Hawkeye Insider, “Leelee Bell is a game-changer.” She offers the kind of adaptability that makes a system work. She has the poise of a veteran, exceptional rebounding instincts, and guard skills in a forward’s body. Fans in Iowa will adore her.
For Bell, the choice marks the end of one chapter and the start of a new one that will be written in black and gold. “I see myself developing both as a player and as a person here,” she remarked. “I appreciate all that Oklahoma has to offer, but Iowa just feels like home.” The Hawkeyes have acquired one of the most complete prospects in the 2026 class with her announcement, and women’s basketball now has another intriguing story to follow.
