Olivia Vukosa Commits to UConn, Joining Elite Women’s Basketball Program

Olivia Vukosa, the third-ranked recruit in the girls’ SC Next 100 Class of 2026, has officially committed to the University of Connecticut (UConn). This announcement was made on Tuesday, marking Vukosa as the first commit for the reigning national champions in her class. The highly sought-after player from Whitestone, New York, chose UConn over other prestigious programs including LSU, Ohio State, Texas, and South Carolina.

Vukosa is currently a senior at Christ the King High School in Queens, which has produced several notable players who have excelled at UConn, including legends like Sue Bird and Tina Charles. Vukosa highlighted the school’s strong connection to UConn as a significant factor in her decision.

A Legacy of Excellence

“I have seen Coach [Mackey] and [DeLuca] prepare girls for college and seen Coach [Geno Auriemma] prepare those girls for the next level,” Vukosa told ESPN. “Many of these girls have followed the path of Christ the King and UConn, and now I want to follow that legacy.”

Another key reason for her commitment was UConn’s proximity to her family, allowing them to easily support her during games. “Ultimately, what sealed my decision was how I felt around the team,” she added. “During my visit, the players welcomed me like I was already part of the family, and that sense of belonging made UConn truly feel like home.”

At 6-foot-4, Vukosa brings a wealth of international experience to UConn. She has represented Croatia in various FIBA competitions, including the 2023 U16 Women’s European Championship and the 2024 Women’s World Cup. Most recently, she participated in the 2025 U20 EuroBasket B Division, where she averaged an impressive 15.6 points and 9.1 rebounds per game.

Playing Style and Future Potential

Vukosa’s playing style has drawn comparisons to Stefanie Dolson, a two-time national champion with UConn and an 11-year WNBA veteran. Both players are known for their exceptional passing skills and confident ball handling. Vukosa has shown her proficiency from long range while demonstrating the ability to dominate in the paint. Her rebounding skills have improved significantly, showcasing her determination to attack the boards.

Defensively, her mobility enables her to adapt to various schemes while maintaining the toughness required of post players. As she currently holds the No. 3 ranking, Vukosa is well-positioned to challenge for the No. 1 spot, currently held by Saniyah Hall, by the end of the high school season.

With Vukosa’s commitment, the top four recruits in the 2026 class have now made their decisions. UConn continues to pursue other top prospects, including Jerzy Robinson, ranked fifth, and Addison Bjorn, ranked tenth.

UConn, ranked No. 1 in the AP preseason Top 25, will begin its title defense against No. 4 Louisville on November 4. As the program looks to build on its legacy, Vukosa’s addition signals a promising future for UConn women’s basketball.