Iowa Women’s Basketball Signs Three Players, Including 5-Star California Guard Addie Deal
Iowa City, IA — The Iowa Hawkeyes women’s basketball program has made waves in the recruiting world, signing three standout players for the upcoming season, highlighted by the addition of Addie Deal, a highly-touted 5-star guard from California. Head coach Lisa Bluder and her staff are once again proving their ability to attract top-tier talent, further cementing Iowa’s position as one of the premier programs in women’s college basketball.
Addie Deal, a dynamic 6-foot guard from Santa Monica, CA, is considered one of the top high school basketball players in the country. Known for her scoring ability, basketball IQ, and versatile playmaking, Deal is widely regarded as a potential game-changer for the Hawkeyes.
Addie Deal: A Star in the Making
Addie Deal has been the centerpiece of California’s high school basketball scene for the past few seasons. Playing for Santa Monica High School, she has been consistently ranked among the top guards in the nation, thanks to her electrifying style of play. As a junior, she averaged 22.1 points, 5.4 assists, and 4.3 rebounds per game, leading her team to a state championship game and earning numerous accolades, including first-team All-State honors.
Deal’s strengths are her ability to score from all areas of the court — whether it’s slashing to the basket, pulling up for mid-range shots, or knocking down three-pointers. What sets her apart, however, is her vision on the floor and her ability to facilitate the offense, making her a natural fit for Iowa’s up-tempo, fast-paced playing style.
“Addie is the kind of player who can change the game in an instant,” Coach Bluder said in a statement. “She has the scoring ability to take over a game, but she also sees the floor in a way few players her age do. We’re thrilled to add her to our program and can’t wait to see her develop in our system.”
Bluder’s Recruiting Success
Iowa’s women’s basketball program has seen a surge in success over the past several years, including NCAA Tournament appearances and a growing national profile. The addition of Addie Deal — alongside two other promising recruits — continues that momentum.
Coach Bluder, who has been at the helm of the Iowa program since 2000, has cultivated a reputation for developing talent into elite players. Under her leadership, Iowa has become known for its high-scoring offense, aggressive defense, and emphasis on player development. The Hawkeyes are coming off an impressive season and are expected to be a top contender in the Big Ten for years to come.
With Deal joining the fold, Iowa’s future looks even brighter. The Hawkeyes are also excited to welcome Sophie Thompson, a 6-foot-3 forward from Des Moines, and Chloe Jackson, a 5-foot-10 guard from Chicago, who are both highly ranked in their respective positions. These three players are expected to make an immediate impact, complementing Iowa’s already established core of veteran players.
Sophie Thompson: A Local Power Forward
Sophie Thompson, who hails from Iowa’s capital city, brings a strong inside presence to the Hawkeyes. A versatile forward who can play both inside and on the perimeter, Thompson excels at rebounding, blocking shots, and contributing offensively in the post. At Des Moines High School, she was named a McDonald’s All-American nominee and is considered one of the top recruits in the Midwest.
“I’m so excited to stay close to home and play for Coach Bluder and the Hawkeyes,” Thompson said in a statement. “Iowa has such a strong basketball tradition, and I know this is the perfect place for me to continue my growth as a player.”
Chloe Jackson: A Versatile Guard with Leadership Potential
Chloe Jackson is another impressive addition to the Hawkeyes’ recruiting class. A true point guard with a natural ability to run an offense, Jackson brings exceptional ball-handling skills and court awareness. During her high school career at St. Ignatius High School in Chicago, she was known for her leadership on and off the court, frequently drawing praise for her basketball IQ and ability to control the pace of the game.
“Chloe is a leader,” Coach Bluder said. “She understands the game at a level that is rare for her age, and she has the tools to make an immediate impact. We’re excited to see her grow as part of our team.”
Looking Ahead
With the addition of these three talented recruits, Iowa women’s basketball is poised for continued success. The Hawkeyes are coming off a strong season that saw them reach the Sweet 16 in the NCAA Tournament, and with Addie Deal, Sophie Thompson, and Chloe Jackson now part of the fold, expectations are high for the future.
Bluder and her coaching staff have built a program that not only attracts elite talent but also develops it to its fullest potential. Addie Deal’s commitment to Iowa is a clear sign that the Hawkeyes are ready to compete at the highest level for years to come, and fans are eager to see how this star-studded recruiting class will impact the team in the near future.
“Iowa has everything I was looking for — great coaching, a winning tradition, and a commitment to developing players,” Deal said. “I’m excited to be part of the next chapter for this program and can’t wait to get started.”
With these three impressive signees, the Iowa women’s basketball team has firmly set its sights on a bright future.