The Summer Circuit: A Showcase of Emerging Talent

The club basketball season has wrapped up, leaving behind a trail of exceptional performances from high school athletes. The four NCAA viewing periods in April, May, and July provided a platform for players to showcase their skills across major circuits like Under Armour UA Next, Select Events Power 24, adidas 3ssb, and Nike EYBL. These events are crucial for both evaluation and recruiting, as they offer college coaches a firsthand look at the next generation of talent.

Early Commitments and Recruiting Trends

Five of the top 20 players in the 2026 class have already committed, including Saniyah Hall (USC), Kate Harpring (North Carolina), and Jordyn Jackson (Maryland). However, only 13 of the top 50 and 28 of the top 100 players have made their decisions. Early commitments from top-tier players often influence the choices of other recruits, as good players tend to seek out other talented teammates. This dynamic creates overlapping finalist lists and intensifies recruiting battles, especially among the elite programs.

The Impact of Revenue-Sharing

The new era of revenue-sharing is also reshaping the recruiting landscape. Players now have longer lists of potential schools and the ability to take unlimited official visits, which may lead to delayed decisions. Some recruits might wait until the late signing period in April to consider roster changes and transfer portal acquisitions before making their final choice.

Standout Players from the Summer Circuit

Emily McDonald (No. 39, 2026 ESPNW 100)

Emily McDonald, a 6-0 guard from Long Island Lutheran (NY), has been turning heads since the fall. Known for her versatility, McDonald can facilitate as a leader or aggressively hunt for 3-point shots. Her ability to communicate effectively on both ends of the floor and her advanced screen-reading skills make her a valuable asset. After the July periods, she received major offers from South Carolina and UCLA.

Morgan Stewart (No. 57, 2026 ESPNW 100)

Morgan Stewart, a 5-11 guard from St. John's College Prep (DC), is the biggest stock riser in the 2026 class. Her game reached new heights at the Capital Invitational in December, and by July, she was controlling games with her decision-making and ability to counter defenses. Stewart's impressive performance earned her offers from Vanderbilt, West Virginia, Maryland, Michigan, Indiana, Washington, Penn State, and Auburn.

Jhai Johnson (No. 75, 2026 ESPNW 100)

Jhai Johnson, a 6-3 forward from Oakland Tech (CA), has unlocked her potential this summer. Known for her physical tools, Johnson showcased her motor, confidence, and consistency, particularly in a game-winning play during the EYBL quarterfinals. Her stellar performance has attracted offers from USC, North Carolina, NC State, Miami, Vanderbilt, Syracuse, Purdue, and Florida.

Eve Long (No. 9, 2027 ESPNW 60)

Eve Long, a 6-3 forward from Olathe South HS (KS), has solidified her position in the Top 10 of her class. Her summer included making the American U16 national team and winning a gold medal. Long's versatility, skill, and ability to finish above the rim have earned her offers from South Carolina, Texas, UCLA, USC, TCU, and Notre Dame.

Jada Jackson (No. 38, 2027 ESPNW 60)

Jada Jackson, a 6-2 post from Frenship HS (TX), has transformed from an athlete who played basketball to a certified hooper. Her improved handle, range, and feel on the floor, combined with her defensive and rebounding abilities, have garnered offers from Penn State, Baylor, Cincinnati, Colorado, Georgia Tech, Clemson, Texas A&M, West Virginia, and Rutgers.

Syniah Coachman (No. 51, 2027 ESPNW 60)

Syniah Coachman, a 5-10 guard from Fayetteville HS (AR), has physically grown this summer, gaining strength and improving her long-range shooting. Her quickness to the rim and comfort all over the floor make her a future high-level defender. Coachman has received offers from TCU, Arizona State, Colorado, Boston College, Tulsa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin.

Khloe Nicholson (No. 25, 2028 ESPNW 25)

Khloe Nicholson, a 6-1 wing from Quincy HS (IL), carries herself like a classic hooper. Her advanced handle and mid-range game make her a tough cover, and her recent offers include Oklahoma, SMU, Ole Miss, Virginia Tech, Marquette, Ohio State, TCU, Indiana, Arkansas, Alabama, Missouri, and Arizona State.

Love Lei Best (Unranked, 2028)

Love Lei Best, a point guard from Tualatin HS (OR), has a connectivity factor on the floor that is contagious. Her savvy ball-handling and ability to manipulate defenses have earned her offers from Virginia, Utah, Texas A&M, Georgia, Ohio State, Baylor, and Purdue.

Janaya Cooper (Unranked, 2028)

Janaya Cooper, a 5-9 power forward from Fort Wayne Snider (IN), has separated herself in her class with her physicality and ability to get to the rim. Her recent offers include Illinois, North Carolina, Ohio State, and Virginia Tech.

Honorable Mentions

• 2026 ESPNW 100: Aaliah Spaight (No. 77), Alliyah 'Lee Lee' Bell (No. 61), Melissa F 'Missy' Odom (No. 29)
• 2027 ESPNW 60: Charis Rainey, Miciah Fusilier (No. 13), De'Andra Minor (No. 21)
• 2028 ESPNW 25: Taylor Morris, Leah Dewitt, Syniyah Grigsby

Freshman Watchlist (2029)

Keep an eye on these rising stars:

• Kolbi Brooks (AZ) - Hoop Code
• Geralyn Byers-Veal (TX) - Southwest Select
• Chloe Jenkins (CA) - Hoop Code
• Jayden McClain (KY) - FBC
• Kristen Winston (AL) - Alabama Southern Starz
• Carib Morris (GA) - FBC
• Khloe Ison (MD) - Team Durant
• Melody Vaughn (PA) - Exodus
• Makenzie Jackson (TX) - Cy Fair
• Ja'Kyiah Cooke (OH) - United Fam

Conclusion

The summer circuit has once again proven to be a critical juncture for the future of NCAA women's basketball. The players who stood out this summer are poised to make significant impacts at the collegiate level, and their decisions will shape the recruiting landscape in the coming years.