13 players from Big Ten teams have transferred or resigned this month. On Monday, a pair of additions became the focus of conversation.
Maryland announced the signing of Channise Lewis to next year’s freshmen class. Lewis had a stellar prep career at Miami Country Day in Miami, Fla. A four-time state tournament champion and two-time winner of the Dicks’ National Championship, Lewis was rated a top 100 recruit by ESPN HoopGurlz.
“Her high school team played an up-tempo style like we do and she likes to share the ball. She has a solid and wonderful family supporting her and I know both our team and her family were excited about the opportunities here,” Maryland head coach Brenda Frese said in a statement published by the school.
Lewis figures to receive plenty of opportunities with the Terrapins next season. Her signing gives Maryland a replacement for Destiny Slocum, the Big Ten Freshman of the Year who opted to transfer. As a high school athlete, Lewis displayed high proficiency in driving and passing, assets that are in high demand for a Maryland team facing concerns about their viability next season.
Elsewhere, Indiana announced that Ali Patberg will join the team as a transfer from Notre Dame. Due to transfer rules, Patberg won’t be eligible to play until the 2018-19 season. Patberg missed her freshman season due to an ACL tear, and was used sporadically this past season at Notre Dame.
“As one of the most decorated players to come out of the state of Indiana, she will be a great addition to our roster,” Indiana head coach Teri Moren said in a statement.
Patberg was a coveted recruit two years ago, and was named Indiana Miss Basketball for 2015.