Top Recruits Make Their Choices
In a significant development for women's college basketball, two of the brightest talents in the 2026 ESPNW 100 class have announced their commitments. Jordyn Jackson, ranked No. 8, has chosen to stay close to home by committing to Maryland, while Saniyah Hall, the No. 1 player in her class, has pledged to join USC. These decisions mark major recruiting wins for both programs as they build toward future success.
Jackson, a 6-foot-1 wing from Sidwell Friends School in Washington, D.C., made her announcement on August 9, becoming the first 2026 commit for Maryland under head coach Brenda Frese. Hall, also a 6-foot-1 forward from Spire Institute, shared her decision on ESPN's 'NBA Today' on July 25, highlighting USC as her destination. Both players are five-star prospects with the potential to transform their respective teams.
Jordyn Jackson's Fit with Maryland
Jordyn Jackson's commitment to Maryland is seen as a perfect match for both the player and the program. As a local talent from the DMV area, Jackson brings a dynamic skill set as a three-level scorer who can slash to the basket and shoot from distance. ESPN analysts have compared her style to current Maryland player Kaylene Smikle, noting her versatility and potential for growth.
Jackson herself emphasized the influence of Coach Frese in her decision, stating, 'The biggest factor is that she has a really good track record of creating pros in my position.' Her choice to stay near home also played a role, as she opted for Maryland over other finalists like South Carolina, Alabama, Ohio State, Miami (FL), and TCU. Under Frese's guidance, Jackson is expected to thrive in a system that has consistently developed elite talent.
This commitment is a significant boost for Maryland, enhancing the Terrapins' recruiting prospects for the 2026 class. As the second-ranked prospect in D.C., Jackson's decision to join the Terps reinforces the program's strong presence in the region and sets a high bar for future recruits.
Saniyah Hall's Impact at USC
Saniyah Hall's commitment to USC represents a landmark moment for the Trojans' women's basketball program. Ranked as the top player in the 2026 class by ESPNW, Hall brings an exceptional combination of size, skill, and athleticism to a team on the rise. Her announcement on national television underscores the growing visibility of USC under head coach Lindsay Gottlieb.
Hall's decision comes on the heels of signing a deal with Jordan Brand earlier in July, further cementing her status as a marquee talent. Her choice of USC over other top programs signals confidence in the Trojans' ability to develop her game and prepare her for the professional level. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how Hall will elevate USC's standing in women's college basketball when she joins the roster in 2026.