Syracuse University has confirmed the signing of Elif Çayir, a Turkish forward, to its women’s basketball team for the upcoming 2026‑27 campaign. The announcement was made as the Orange prepare to bolster their lineup with a blend of experienced transfers and fresh talent.
Çayir arrives after a four‑year stint with Nesibe Aydin in the Turkish Women’s Basketball Super League, where she logged 33 appearances and shot 40 percent from the field. Over that span she collected 44 rebounds and dished out 12 assists, numbers that underline her all‑around contributions.
She will join a group that already includes transfers Sarah Rambus, Tyi Skinner, Jaleesa Molina and Emely Rodriguez, while the incoming freshman class adds Madison Howard and Destiny Robinson to the mix.
A Fresh Look for the Orange
Coach staff expressed optimism that Çayir’s international experience will bring a new dynamic to the squad, noting that her shooting efficiency and versatility could help the team compete at a higher level in the ACC.
The addition reflects Syracuse’s strategy of tapping into global talent pools, a trend that has seen the program attract players from Europe and beyond. Fans can expect to see Çayir integrated into the rotation as the team opens its season.