Five-Star guard Jenica Lewis is expected to make her college decision Thursday night, with all eyes on Johnston.
As five-star in-state recruit Jenica Lewis gets ready to make her college commitment announcement on Thursday at 6 p.m. CT, the excitement in Iowa basketball circles is building to a fever pitch. All indications point to a thrilling conclusion as the 5-foot-10 guard from Johnston High School has reduced her list to four elite schools: Iowa, Notre Dame, Oregon, and TCU.
The Hawkeyes have been regarded as the sentimental favorite for months. Lewis grew up watching Iowa basketball, and a lot of supporters thought that the program’s recent national success and the connection to home would be sufficient to keep her in-state. However, as of Wednesday evening, things seem to be changing.
David Eickholt of HawkeyeeInsider recorded a 247Sports crystal ball prediction in favor of Notre Dame with a “8” confidence level, suggesting that Lewis might be moving toward South Bend rather than Iowa City. The growing pool of in-state talent staying home under head coach Jan Jensen and Iowa’s 2026 recruiting class would suffer a serious setback if that prediction comes to pass.
Lewis is more than just a new hire. According to the 247Sports composite rankings, she is the top-ranked prospect in the state of Iowa, the fourth-best shooting guard in the country, and the 22nd-ranked player overall.
She has been compared to some of the best guards in women’s college basketball because of her polished scoring ability, fluid handle, and basketball IQ. This recruitment has been personal for Iowa supporters. It would be devastating to lose a player of Lewis’s caliber, particularly one from their own community. Following Caitlin Clark’s explosive run, the Hawkeyes have been working hard to keep up the momentum and draw in elite players. Lewis was hailed by many as the next homegrown star to take up that tradition.
In contrast, Notre Dame has established a compelling argument based on academic prestige, tradition, and head coach Niele Ivey’s history of producing guards who are ready for the next level. TCU and Oregon have also put up a good fight, but rumors have it that the Hawkeyes and Fighting Irish will ultimately make the choice.
Lewis’ dedication will have an impact on women’s basketball recruiting, regardless of what she decides on Thursday night. For Iowa, it serves as a reminder of how competitive the current recruiting environment has become, or it serves as a celebration of another local star remaining in the area. There is no doubt that the entire state of Iowa will be watching when Jenica Lewis takes the mic on Thursday night.
