Texas Longhorns Secure Commitment from Nation’s No. 1 Player
The Texas Longhorns women’s basketball program has landed a game-changing commitment from the nation’s No. 1 recruit, cementing their status as a powerhouse under head coach Vic Schaefer. The highly sought-after five-star prospect, Ava Thompson, announced her decision to join Texas over elite programs such as Kentucky, Alabama, and Louisville.
The Recruitment Battle
Ava Thompson, a 6-foot-3 forward from Chicago, Illinois, has been a dominant force in high school basketball, drawing comparisons to WNBA superstars like Breanna Stewart and A’ja Wilson. Over the past year, her recruitment has been a fierce battle among top programs, with Texas emerging victorious due to a combination of strong coaching, player development, and a clear vision for success.
Kentucky, Alabama, and Louisville made strong pushes for Thompson, offering competitive NIL deals and prominent roles within their programs. However, Texas’s strong SEC performance and recent player success stories were major factors in her decision.
Why Texas?
In her commitment announcement, Thompson cited Texas’s ability to develop players for the professional level, as well as their commitment to championship culture.
“Coach Schaefer has built something special in Austin,” Thompson said. “The program’s trajectory, the resources, and the way they develop players fit exactly what I was looking for.”
Texas’s move to the SEC has also played a significant role in recruiting, as the conference offers some of the highest levels of competition in women’s basketball. The opportunity to compete against the best week in and week out was appealing to Thompson, who has aspirations of playing in the WNBA.
Impact on Texas Women’s Basketball
Landing the No. 1 player in the country is a huge win for the Longhorns, who are looking to build on their recent success. Under Schaefer, Texas has consistently been a top-10 program, and Thompson’s addition could elevate them to national championship contenders.
Thompson’s versatility allows her to play multiple positions, giving Texas flexibility in their lineups. Her ability to score at all three levels, defend multiple positions, and be a leader on the court makes her an immediate impact player.
Strengthening an Already Elite Roster
Thompson joins a Texas roster that already boasts elite talent. Current stars like Rori Harmon and Aaliyah Moore have helped Texas reach new heights, and adding Thompson into the mix only strengthens their championship aspirations.
The Longhorns have also landed commitments from other top-20 players in the 2025 class, further bolstering their future. With a combination of veteran leadership and young talent, Texas is poised to be a dominant force in women’s college basketball for years to come.
What This Means for Women’s College Basketball
The commitment of a No. 1 recruit always sends ripples through the college basketball landscape. Texas’s success in landing Thompson signals a shift in power, proving they can compete with perennial recruiting giants like South Carolina, UConn, and Stanford.
It also emphasizes the growing impact of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) opportunities. Texas’s strong NIL structure played a role in securing Thompson’s commitment, highlighting how the college sports landscape has changed in recent years.
Looking Ahead
With the No. 1 player in the country committed and a strong supporting cast around her, Texas is in prime position for a national championship run in the coming years. The Longhorns’ future looks incredibly bright, and the addition of Ava Thompson only solidifies their place among the elite.
This commitment is more than just a recruiting win—it’s a statement. Texas women’s basketball is here to stay, and the rest of the country better take notice.