In a monumental moment for North Carolina Women’s Basketball, the Tar Heels have landed the commitment of the No. 1 player in the country, delivering a major boost to head coach Courtney Banghart’s program and signaling UNC’s rise into the national elite.
The top-ranked recruit — a dominant, versatile force on the court — made her announcement public Sunday, choosing the Tar Heels over several powerhouse programs including UConn, South Carolina, LSU, and Stanford. Her commitment is being hailed as one of the biggest recruiting wins in program history.
“I chose North Carolina because it felt like home,” the star recruit said. “The coaches believe in me, the players are like family, and I want to help bring a championship to Chapel Hill.”
Standing at 6-foot-3, the five-star phenom plays with an elite combination of athleticism, skill, and basketball IQ. She dominates on both ends of the floor, capable of scoring at all three levels, locking down top offensive threats, and rebounding at a high level. Analysts have compared her to WNBA stars for her poise, leadership, and versatility.
Over the last year, she’s racked up awards and accolades — including National Player of the Year honors, a gold medal with Team USA, and a McDonald’s All-American selection. Her high school coach described her as a “once-in-a-generation” player.
“UNC is getting a game-changer,” he said. “She elevates everyone around her and competes with a fire that’s rare to see. She’s ready to be the face of a program — and she picked the perfect place to do it.”
For head coach Courtney Banghart, this commitment represents more than just a top-tier talent joining the roster — it’s a signal that UNC is now a legitimate recruiting powerhouse on the national stage.
“This is a special day for Carolina Women’s Basketball,” Banghart said. “We’re thrilled to welcome a player of her caliber, but more importantly, a person of her character. She brings excellence, toughness, and leadership to everything she does. We can’t wait to get to work with her.”
The Tar Heels have been building momentum under Banghart’s leadership, consistently making NCAA Tournament appearances and climbing the national rankings. But this commitment takes things to another level. With the No. 1 player in the class now in the fold, expectations in Chapel Hill are about to skyrocket.
Fans have already taken to social media to express their excitement, with Tar Heel Nation buzzing about what’s next for the program. “We’re back!” one fan posted. “She’s about to change the game in Carolina blue.”
The addition of a player of this magnitude is expected to attract even more top recruits, helping solidify UNC’s standing as a destination program for elite talent in women’s basketball.
For now, though, the Tar Heels can celebrate a monumental win — one that could reshape the program’s future.
And with the No. 1 player in America soon to be suiting up in Carolina Blue, the rest of the women’s college basketball world has officially been put on notice.