Full Breakdown
Recruiting Highlights: Key Prospects for Women's College Basketball
8/23/2025, 2:04:23 PM
Brihanna Crittendon’s Official Visit to Tennessee
Five-star forward Brihanna Crittendon, ranked No. 9 in the 2026 class, is set to take her official visit to the University of Tennessee's Lady Vols basketball program on the weekend of September 12. Crittendon, a 6-foot-3 prospect from Thornton, Colorado, has garnered attention for her prolific scoring ability, surpassing 2,000 career points at Riverdale Ridge High School. Last season, she averaged 26.4 points, 5.9 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 2.9 steals, and 1.1 blocks. Crittendon’s visit coincides with a significant football game against Georgia, highlighting the dual-sport interest in Tennessee.
Crittendon previously visited Tennessee unofficially in August 2024 and holds offers from nearly every major program. She is expected to be joined by another five-star recruit, Oliviyah Edwards, ranked No. 2 in the class, during this visit. The addition of both forwards would be crucial for the Lady Vols, who are set to lose three of their four forwards to graduation after the 2025-26 season.
Brooklynn Haywood Commits to Oregon Ducks
The Oregon Ducks women's basketball program has secured a commitment from four-star combo guard Brooklynn Haywood, ranked No. 26 in the 2026 recruiting class. Haywood, who hails from Vancouver, Washington, chose Oregon over offers from programs such as the Houston Cougars, Utah Utes, North Carolina Tar Heels, and Baylor Bears. Her decision was influenced by the strong relationship she developed with Oregon coach Kelly Graves, who emphasized honesty and communication throughout the recruiting process.
Haywood's commitment marks the second for the Ducks in the 2026 class, joining La'u Pele Falatea. Graves has a history of developing high-IQ guards, and Haywood's skills, showcased during her junior season and summer tournaments, align with the program's needs.
Arkansas Razorbacks’ Recruiting Strategy Under John Calipari
Under head coach John Calipari, the Arkansas Razorbacks are making significant strides in recruiting for the 2026 class. The program has already secured a commitment from five-star wing JaShawn "JJ" Andrews and is in a strong position to land another five-star prospect, Abdou Toure. Toure, a 6-5 wing from Connecticut, has named Arkansas among his top schools and is expected to announce his official visit dates soon.
Calipari's approach to recruiting has historically involved bringing in multiple players at similar positions, a strategy that has proven successful in developing talent and achieving high-level performance. Toure's impressive statistics from both high school and international play, including his performance at the FIBA U17 World Cup, further bolster Arkansas's recruiting profile.
Upcoming Events and Implications
The recruiting landscape is heating up as top prospects finalize their visits and commitments. The Mamba League Invitational, taking place in Los Angeles, will feature numerous high-profile recruits, including those with offers from major programs like North Carolina and Kentucky. This event not only showcases talent but also serves as a critical opportunity for coaches to evaluate prospects in a competitive environment.
As the 2026 recruiting class continues to take shape, programs like Tennessee, Oregon, and Arkansas are positioning themselves to enhance their rosters significantly, aiming for success in upcoming seasons.
