Indiana Women’s Basketball Lands 2026 Guard Ashlinn James in Major Recruiting Win

Indiana women’s basketball has made a significant addition to its future roster with the commitment of Ashlinn James, a talented class of 2026 guard from Louisville, Kentucky. James announced her decision to join the Hoosiers on social media on Monday, making her the first commitment in Indiana’s 2026 recruiting class. Standing at 5-foot-7, the skilled guard currently attends Assumption High School and is known for her quickness, court vision, and scoring ability.

James’s commitment comes on the heels of her visit to Bloomington for Hoosier Hysteria, the team’s annual preseason event showcasing both the men’s and women’s basketball programs. Her visit seems to have solidified her interest in Indiana, as she had received a scholarship offer from the Hoosiers last fall and returned for an unofficial visit in August. Indiana’s coaching staff, led by head coach Teri Moren, has been keen on adding James to their program, recognizing her potential to impact the team as both a scorer and playmaker.

According to recruiting sources, James had garnered attention from other major programs, including Miami and Marquette, but ultimately decided to commit to Indiana, citing a strong connection with the coaching staff and a vision for her future in the Hoosiers’ program. Her experience and background indicate that she will be a valuable addition to Indiana’s guard rotation once she arrives on campus.

James is a versatile player with experience at both the high school and club levels. She spent last season at Manual High School before transferring to Assumption High School. Additionally, she plays for Dana Evans Elite, an AAU team named after WNBA star Dana Evans, who has become a prominent figure in women’s basketball, especially in the Louisville area. James’s AAU experience has provided her with top-tier competition and exposure to high-level coaching, helping her to develop a strong basketball IQ and well-rounded skill set.

Indiana has a history of successfully recruiting talent from the Louisville area, which has become a reliable pipeline for the program. In 2017, the Hoosiers signed Jaelynn Penn from Butler High School, and in 2018, they secured Grace Berger from Sacred Heart Academy. Both players made substantial contributions to the Hoosiers’ program, with Berger, in particular, becoming one of Indiana’s all-time greats and a key leader for the team. James will look to follow in their footsteps and make her own mark in Bloomington.

For the Hoosiers, landing James represents a promising start to the 2026 recruiting class. Indiana’s program has gained national recognition in recent years under Coach Moren, who has guided the team to consistent success in the Big Ten and deep runs in the NCAA Tournament. By securing James, Indiana continues its strategy of recruiting skilled guards who can impact both ends of the court and contribute to the team’s fast-paced style of play.

James’s commitment highlights the growing appeal of Indiana women’s basketball, as the Hoosiers have become a program of choice for top recruits looking to develop their skills and compete for championships. Fans and analysts alike will be watching her progress over the next two years as she prepares to join the Hoosiers and potentially play a pivotal role in the team’s future success. With James on board, Indiana women’s basketball continues to build momentum as it aims to maintain its status as a powerhouse in the Big Ten and beyond.