University of Tennessee’s 2025 Women’s Basketball Recruiting Class Sweeps McDonald’s All-American Game Nominations
The University of Tennessee’s women’s basketball program has long been a powerhouse in NCAA Division I basketball. Known for its rich history, strong tradition, and passionate fan base, the Lady Volunteers have consistently been one of the most dominant teams in the country. Now, as they continue to build on their legacy, Tennessee has set its sights on the future, with the 2025 recruiting class poised to take the program to new heights.
One of the most exciting developments for Tennessee fans and basketball enthusiasts alike is the Lady Vols’ remarkable success in the 2025 women’s basketball recruiting class. This year, the class received a huge honor: every recruit in Tennessee’s 2025 recruiting class was nominated for the prestigious McDonald’s All-American Game. This achievement marks a historic moment for the program and highlights the growing talent pool that Tennessee has managed to attract under head coach Kellie Harper. To sweep the nominations for such an elite event is no small feat, and it speaks to the immense talent and potential of the athletes who have committed to Tennessee.
What is the McDonald’s All-American Game?
The McDonald’s All-American Game is one of the most celebrated events in high school basketball, recognizing the best and brightest young talent in the country. For girls’ basketball, the McDonald’s All-American Game serves as the equivalent of a showcase, with the top 24 players across the nation selected to compete in the game. These athletes are considered the future stars of women’s basketball, and the game often serves as a launching pad for their careers at the collegiate level and beyond.
The selection process for the McDonald’s All-American Game is rigorous, and earning a nomination is an impressive accomplishment in itself. The players who are chosen are evaluated on various factors, including their individual skills, basketball IQ, leadership qualities, and impact on their high school teams. It’s no surprise that Tennessee’s 2025 recruiting class—already one of the most highly anticipated in recent memory—has been recognized in such a significant way.
Tennessee’s 2025 Recruiting Class: A Game-Changer
The University of Tennessee has long been known for its ability to recruit top-tier talent, and this year’s 2025 class is no exception. The Lady Vols have assembled a group of players who not only excel on the basketball court but also embody the values and traditions that have made Tennessee women’s basketball so successful over the years. Each player in the 2025 class brings something unique to the table, and their inclusion in the McDonald’s All-American Game nominations is a testament to their exceptional skill and potential.
The following players have been nominated for the McDonald’s All-American Game as part of Tennessee’s 2025 recruiting class:
- Olivia Owens
- Zyrenna Jackson
- Amara Williams
- Marissa Scott
- Daja Green
Each of these athletes has shown incredible promise during their high school careers and has the potential to make a significant impact at the collegiate level. While Tennessee’s future may be bright, these five players are already establishing themselves as future stars, with their McDonald’s All-American Game nominations only confirming their status as elite recruits.
Olivia Owens: A Dominant Force in the Paint
Olivia Owens is one of the standout players in Tennessee’s 2025 class, and her McDonald’s All-American nomination is a reflection of her dominant presence on the basketball court. Owens, a 6’4″ center from Georgia, is widely regarded as one of the top post players in the country. Known for her physicality, rebounding ability, and shot-blocking prowess, Owens has the potential to be a game-changer for Tennessee in the coming years.
Owens has been a force for her high school team, leading them to multiple state championships. Her ability to control the paint on both ends of the floor makes her an invaluable asset, and her basketball IQ allows her to make quick decisions in fast-paced situations. Tennessee fans are eagerly awaiting her arrival on campus, as Owens is expected to step in and contribute immediately for the Lady Vols.
Zyrenna Jackson: A Dynamic Scorer and Playmaker
Zyrenna Jackson is another highly-touted recruit in Tennessee’s 2025 class who has received a McDonald’s All-American nomination. Jackson, a 5’11” guard from California, is known for her versatility and ability to score in a variety of ways. Whether it’s attacking the rim, shooting from deep, or facilitating for her teammates, Jackson brings a dynamic skill set that will be an asset to the Lady Vols.
Her ability to create her own shot and make plays for others sets her apart from other guards in the 2025 class. Jackson has been a key player for her high school team, leading them to success in both local and national competitions. With her combination of size, athleticism, and basketball IQ, Jackson has the potential to be one of the best guards in the nation when she suits up for Tennessee.
Amara Williams: A Strong Defender with Offensive Flair
Amara Williams is another impressive member of Tennessee’s 2025 recruiting class, and her McDonald’s All-American nomination is well-deserved. Williams, a 6’0″ wing player from Texas, is known for her tenacious defense and ability to lock down opponents on the perimeter. Her physicality and length make her an imposing presence on defense, while her offensive game has continued to develop over the course of her high school career.
Williams’ ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor has made her a highly sought-after recruit, and her defensive prowess will certainly be a major asset for Tennessee. With the Lady Vols’ emphasis on tough, hard-nosed defense, Williams’ skill set aligns perfectly with the program’s needs. Tennessee fans are excited to see how Williams develops as a player, and her McDonald’s All-American nomination is just the beginning of what promises to be a stellar career.
Marissa Scott: A Smooth Shooter with Court Vision
Marissa Scott is a player who has garnered a lot of attention in the 2025 recruiting class, and her McDonald’s All-American nomination is a testament to her exceptional shooting ability and court vision. Scott, a 6’0″ guard from Illinois, is known for her smooth shooting stroke, especially from beyond the arc. In addition to her ability to score, Scott is also an excellent playmaker, with the vision to set up her teammates for easy baskets.
Scott has been a standout player for her high school team, and her shooting ability has made her one of the most feared scorers in the nation. Her versatility as a guard allows her to play both on and off the ball, and she can create opportunities for herself and others in various offensive sets. With her skill set, Scott is poised to make an immediate impact at Tennessee, where she will be a valuable contributor to the team’s offensive attack.
Daja Green: A Defensive Specialist with Offensive Potential
Daja Green, a 5’10” guard from New Jersey, rounds out Tennessee’s 2025 recruiting class and is another player who has earned a nomination for the McDonald’s All-American Game. Green is known for her exceptional defense and ability to disrupt opposing offenses with her quickness and anticipation. As a defensive specialist, Green has the ability to lock down the opposing team’s best scorer, and her basketball IQ allows her to read the game at an elite level.
While defense is Green’s primary strength, she has also shown offensive potential, particularly in transition. Her ability to score in fast-break situations and create opportunities off the dribble makes her a well-rounded player. Green’s tenacity and leadership will make her a valuable addition to Tennessee’s roster, and her McDonald’s All-American nomination speaks to her rising star status.
A Bright Future for Tennessee Women’s Basketball
The 2025 recruiting class is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent history for the University of Tennessee. The Lady Vols have long been a national powerhouse, and with the addition of these five highly-ranked recruits, the program’s future looks brighter than ever.
Each of these players brings something unique to the table, and their McDonald’s All-American nominations further solidify their status as future stars of women’s college basketball. Tennessee fans have every reason to be excited about the potential of this class, as these players are expected to contribute immediately and help the Lady Vols return to national prominence.
With head coach Kellie Harper at the helm, Tennessee women’s basketball is poised for continued success. The Lady Vols have always attracted top-tier talent, and the 2025 recruiting class is a testament to the program’s ability to remain a force in the world of women’s college basketball. As these players develop and grow over the next few years, the University of Tennessee looks set to remain one of the top programs in the country, continuing to build on the foundation laid by legendary figures such as Pat Summitt and Holly Warlick.