UConn Lands Top Recruit Olivia Vukosa,Solidifying Championship Contention for 2026
October 21,2025,4:00 PM ET – In a meaningful win for Coach Geno auriemma and the University of Connecticut,Olivia Vukosa,the No. 3 ranked player in the 2026 class according to SC Next, has committed to the Huskies. This announcement marks the first commitment for the reigning national champions in the 2026 recruiting cycle and immediately elevates UConnS future prospects.
Vukosa chose UConn over a highly competitive field, including LSU, Ohio State, Texas, and South Carolina. Her decision underscores the continued appeal of the Huskies’ program and its proven track record of developing elite talent.
A legacy of Excellence: Why UConn?
The Whitestone, New York native, currently a senior at Christ the King High School in queens, cited the program’s rich history and the strong pipeline from her high school as key factors. Christ the King has a long and successful history of sending players to Storrs, including WNBA legends Sue Bird and Tina Charles.
“I have seen Coach Mackey and Deluca prepare girls for college and seen Coach Geno prepare those girls for the next level,” Vukosa shared with ESPN. “Many of these girls have followed the path of Christ the King and UConn, and now I want to follow that legacy.”
Beyond the program’s pedigree, Vukosa emphasized the importance of family and a sense of belonging. UConn’s location allows for easy travel for her family, and the team’s welcoming atmosphere sealed the deal. During her visit, she felt instantly connected to the players, describing the experience as feeling “like I was already part of the family.”
What Olivia vukosa Brings to the Huskies
At 6-foot-4, Vukosa is a versatile post player with a rapidly developing skillset. She’s not just a presence in the paint; she’s a dynamic player who can impact the game in multiple ways.
Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect from Vukosa:
* International Experience: She’s a seasoned competitor on the international stage,having represented Croatia in FIBA competitions,including the 2023 U16 Women’s European Championship,the 2024 Women’s World Cup,and most recently,the 2025 U20 EuroBasket B Division (where she averaged an extraordinary 15.6 points and 9.1 rebounds per game).
* Versatile skillset: Her game draws comparisons to UConn and WNBA great stefanie Dolson.Like Dolson,Vukosa is a gifted passer and confident ball handler for her size.
* Offensive Prowess: She’s proven capable of shooting from beyond the arc while still possessing the strength and skill to dominate in the post.
* Rebounding Enhancement: Vukosa has demonstrably improved her rebounding, notably on the offensive glass, recognizing its importance to her overall game.
* Defensive Adaptability: Her mobility allows her to thrive in various defensive schemes, providing Coach Auriemma with strategic options.
Impact on the 2026 Recruiting Class & Beyond
Vukosa’s commitment significantly alters the landscape of the 2026 recruiting class. She is the fourth top recruit to commit, effectively taking the top four players off the board.
Currently ranked No. 3, Vukosa has the potential to challenge Saniyah Hall for the No. 1 spot before the end of her high school season. UConn isn’t stopping here, though, and remains actively recruiting No. 5 Jerzy Robinson and No. 10 Addison Bjorn.
The Huskies, ranked No. 1 in the AP preseason top 25, will begin their title defense on November 4th against No. 4 Louisville. With Vukosa joining the ranks, the future looks exceptionally radiant in Storrs.
This commitment isn’t just about adding a talented player; its about continuing a legacy of excellence and solidifying UConn’s position as a dominant force in women’s college basketball.
