Arkansas Women’s Basketball Welcomes Three New Players to 2025 Signing Class
FAYETTEVILLE – Head coach Mike Neighbors of the Arkansas women’s basketball team is excited to announce the signing of three athletes from various parts of the world, marking a promising start for the 2025 recruiting class.
In his comments about the new recruits, Coach Neighbors emphasized the importance of building relationships amidst the evolving landscape of college athletics. He stated, “Our three newest Razorbacks come from diverse backgrounds and basketball experiences but all three found in common that this was the best place for them each to continue their education and development.” He expressed gratitude to fans for their warm welcome and support during the recruits’ visits, highlighting how this sense of community played a significant role in their decisions.
The three new signings include:
**Bonnie Deas** (5’9 | Guard | Melbourne, Australia): A standout player invited to the WNBA All-Star Weekend as a Top 40 player globally, Deas chose Arkansas over offers from Syracuse, Washington, and Mississippi State. She had an impressive season with Australia in the FIBA 18-under Asia Cup, averaging 13.8 points, six rebounds, and 2.4 assists, while also shooting 52.5% from the field. Coach Neighbors praised her dynamic playstyle and her ability to perform under pressure.
**Aisha Salem Hassan** (5-7 | Guard | Alexandria, Egypt): Salem Hassan has a strong background with the Egyptian National Team and was named MVP at the Basketball Without Borders camp in South Africa. She chose Arkansas over Yale and Columbia. Known for her aggressive playing style and leadership, she is expected to make a considerable impact on both offense and defense.
**Harmonie Ware** (5-10 | Guard | Cleveland, TN): Ware, a key player from Bradley Central High School, was named MVP of the Class 4A State tournament after scoring a record-high 29 points in the championship game. She chose Arkansas over several competitive programs, and her strong defensive skills and versatility are expected to complement Coach Neighbors’ system effectively.
Looking ahead, the Razorbacks will host UT-Arlington on November 14 at Bud Walton Arena, with the game scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m. Fans can watch the action live on SEC Network+.
The signing of these talented players signifies a bright future for Arkansas women’s basketball. Their diverse skills and backgrounds will undoubtedly enrich the team dynamics, and the community spirit found in Fayetteville is poised to support their development both on and off the court. The Razorbacks are clearly on track to build a formidable squad for the upcoming seasons.
In summary, the Arkansas women’s basketball program has made a significant stride by securing three promising athletes from different countries. This development not only enhances the team’s competitiveness but also reflects the growing global interest in basketball, fostering a more inclusive environment in collegiate sports.