In a significant development for collegiate women’s basketball, Aaliyah Chavez, the nation’s top recruit for the class of 2025, has committed to the University of Oklahoma. The 5-foot-11 point guard from Lubbock, Texas, made her announcement on March 25, 2025, during a nationally televised segment on ESPN’s “SportsCenter.”
Chavez’s decision to join the Sooners is a testament to Oklahoma’s growing prominence in women’s basketball. Under the leadership of head coach Jennie Baranczyk, who took the helm in 2021, the program has experienced a resurgence, culminating in a Sweet 16 appearance in the 2025 NCAA Tournament. Chavez cited the team’s fast-paced style of play as a key factor in her commitment, stating, “They match how I want to play; I want to play fast.”
During her illustrious high school career at Monterey High School, Chavez showcased exceptional talent and consistency. Over 150 games, she averaged 32 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game, while maintaining a low turnover rate of 2.6 per game. Her scoring prowess and playmaking abilities have drawn national attention, earning her accolades such as the Gatorade National Player of the Year and the Naismith Prep Player of the Year Award in 2025.
Chavez’s commitment is particularly noteworthy given the competition from other top-tier programs, including Texas, South Carolina, Texas Tech, and UCLA. Her choice reflects a belief in Oklahoma’s vision and the opportunity to make an immediate impact. As ESPN’s Shane Laflin remarked, Chavez possesses “focus, determination, competitiveness, and elite shotmaking abilities,” qualities that are expected to elevate the Sooners’ performance in the coming seasons.
The addition of Chavez to Oklahoma’s roster is anticipated to bolster the team’s competitiveness in the NCAA. Her dynamic playing style and leadership qualities are seen as assets that can drive the Sooners deeper into tournament play. This sentiment is echoed by analysts who draw parallels between Chavez’s potential impact at Oklahoma and the influence of players like UConn’s Paige Bueckers on their respective teams.
Chavez’s journey to this point has been marked by dedication and resilience. Her commitment to excellence on the court has not only set records but also inspired many in her community and beyond. As she transitions to the collegiate level, the anticipation surrounding her debut with the Sooners continues to build, with fans and analysts eager to witness how her talents will translate in the NCAA arena.
In summary, Aaliyah Chavez’s commitment to the University of Oklahoma represents a pivotal moment for the Sooners’ women’s basketball program. Her exceptional skills, coupled with the team’s upward trajectory under Coach Baranczyk, signal a promising future for Oklahoma in the highly competitive landscape of women’s college basketball.