The Oklahoma State Cowgirls women's basketball program is poised for a dramatic reshuffle as nine scholarship players have entered the transfer portal and secured new destinations. Each athlete has found a new team, and two of them will remain in the Big 12 Conference, guaranteeing at least one rematch against the Cowgirls next season.
A coaching challenge in the portal era
Head coach Jacie Hoyt and her staff faced a steep uphill battle in the transfer market because only one player from last year's roster decided to stay. The limited returning core forced the coaching staff to aggressively pursue talent in the portal, ultimately assembling one of the most talked‑about transfer classes in women's basketball.
Jadyn Wooten, who led the team with 12.8 points and 5.4 assists per game, chose to continue her career at Texas Christian University. Her departure leaves a sizable scoring void, but the move also places her back in a familiar conference where she will once again contend for a Big 12 title.
Achol Akot, another offensive anchor, transferred to the University of North Carolina, where she is expected to contribute 12.4 points and 7.2 rebounds per game. The move brings her to a program known for its strong defensive schemes, offering a new set of challenges and opportunities.
Amari Whiting headed to the University of Iowa, bringing with her averages of 9.6 points, 5.9 rebounds, 2.9 assists and 1.8 steals per game. Iowa's fast‑paced style should highlight Whiting's versatility and could see her impact rise in the upcoming season.
Lena Girardi made a splash by joining the University of Utah, where she set a freshman single‑game record with nine three‑pointers. Her shooting prowess will add a new dimension to Utah's perimeter attack.
Macey Huard chose Washington, where she posted 5.9 points and 3.7 rebounds in her first year at Oklahoma State. The Huskies will look to integrate her steady presence into a roster that is still building around younger talent.
Faith Acker transferred to Stephen F. Austin State University, averaging 9.3 points and 6.3 rebounds at Tarleton State before the move. Her rebounding skill set should translate well to the Lumberjacks' interior game.
Praise Egharevba found a new home at the University of Texas at San Antonio, where she contributed 3.3 points and 4.6 rebounds per game for the Cowgirls. Her defensive instincts should serve the Roadrunners well.
Favour Onoh moved to Weber State University, seeing limited minutes in five games as a freshman. Despite the modest role, her experience will add depth to the Wildcats' frontcourt.
Tyla Heard, the younger sister of former Cowgirl Stailee Heard, transferred to the University of Akron. The move creates a familial link between two programs and adds another dynamic to the Heard family's basketball narrative.
Two of the departing players have elected to stay within the Big 12, ensuring that the Cowgirls will meet them on the court next season. Those matchups will provide early barometers for how the new rosters adapt and will likely influence conference standings.
Overall, the transfer wave reflects both the volatility of modern college athletics and the strategic agility required of coaching staffs navigating the portal. As the new rosters take shape, the Cowgirls will rely on fresh talent, experienced returnees, and the chemistry forged in practice to contend for future success.