McKenna Woliczko, a highly sought-after Class of 2026 basketball prospect ranked No. 6 nationally by ESPN, is making headlines with her recruitment decisions influenced by the Caitlin Clark impact on Iowa women’s basketball recruitment. The Archbishop Mitty High School player from San Jose has recently narrowed her college options to four programs: Iowa Hawkeyes, Ohio State Buckeyes, South Carolina Gamecocks, and USC Trojans.
Before a January ACL injury cut her sophomore season short, Woliczko was excelling at Archbishop Mitty, averaging 22.1 points per game on 64% shooting and gathering 7.3 rebounds. Despite the setback, her recruitment continues to generate significant attention.
Woliczko’s Engagement With Iowa and Upcoming Visits
Woliczko has planned official visits to two of her finalist schools, starting with South Carolina’s Gamecocks on June 30 and Iowa later in August, following an initial visit to Iowa’s campus in October 2024. She expressed strong connections with the Iowa coaching staff during an interview with On3, highlighting both personal rapport and team culture.
“I have a really good relationship with all the coaches,” Woliczko said. “I talk to them a lot and I just love them as people and I could see them coaching me. When I went on Iowa’s campus in the fall, I really enjoyed the girls. I feel like all of them were very chill, but also they want to get better and play great basketball.”
— McKenna Woliczko, Basketball Prospect
Her appreciation for the team environment reflects the growing appeal of Iowa, partially attributed to the program’s notable rise under standout star Caitlin Clark.
Mixed Reactions From Fans on Woliczko’s Final Four
Social media responses from college basketball supporters revealed divided opinions about Woliczko’s choices. Some questioned the inclusion of South Carolina, while others enthusiastically supported her potential commitment to Iowa. Oklahoma City fans in particular acknowledged the local program’s elevated status thanks to recent successes.
“Don’t know why she has SC on the list she ain’t never gonna play for Staley!!!”
— Unnamed Fan
“CC really put Iowa on the map,” one fan tweeted.
— Unnamed Fan
“Iowa City is the women’s basketball capital of the world!” Another fan tweeted.
— Unnamed Fan
This mix of opinions underscores the high stakes and excitement surrounding Woliczko’s decision and the continued growth of Iowa as a destination for elite talent.
Admiration for Dawn Staley’s South Carolina Program
Woliczko also expressed strong admiration for South Carolina and its head coach, Dawn Staley, recognizing the program’s reputation for preparing players for professional careers in the WNBA. She emphasized the advantage of competing alongside top-level players in college before entering the pro ranks.
“I love Dawn (Staley) and the rest of the coaching staff,” Woliczko said. “I think that South Carolina is, when you’re looking to get to that next level, like the WNBA, South Carolina will help you get there.
— McKenna Woliczko, Basketball Prospect
“So I think that’s really cool to think about. They’re just recruiting the best of the best, so then you’re able to play with top players in the country, and that’s what it’s going to be like playing in the pros. I think it’d be cool to figure that out at the college level, instead of being pushed right into that at the pro level.”
— McKenna Woliczko, Basketball Prospect
Dawn Staley’s program is actively pursuing elite recruits, having hosted the nation’s top-ranked player, Saniyah Hall, earlier this year and preparing to court other top prospects, intensifying the competitive recruiting atmosphere for Woliczko.
The Growing Influence of Caitlin Clark on Iowa Recruitment
Woliczko’s interest in Iowa is closely linked to the transformative effect Caitlin Clark has had on the program’s profile and recruiting power. Clark’s standout performances have elevated the Hawkeyes into a nationally recognized powerhouse, attracting premier talent like Woliczko. This momentum appears instrumental in positioning Iowa as a frontrunner in recruiting the next generation of elite women’s basketball players.
As Woliczko’s college visit schedule progresses and her decision approaches, the impact of Clark’s success continues to ripple through women’s college basketball, signaling a possible shift in recruiting dynamics toward Iowa. Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching to see if Woliczko joins the growing legacy Clark has helped build in Iowa City.