Indiana University women’s basketball program has secured a significant addition to its roster with the commitment of Zania Socka-Nguemen, a former five-star recruit and UCLA transfer. The 6-foot-3 forward from Silver Spring, Maryland, brings a blend of size, athleticism, and potential that aligns with head coach Teri Moren’s vision for the team’s future.Socka-Nguemen’s basketball journey began at Sidwell Friends School in Washington, D.C., where she established herself as a top-tier high school player. Her performance on the court earned her a spot on the prestigious McDonald’s All-American team, highlighting her as one of the nation’s elite prospects. During her time at Sidwell, she showcased versatility, averaging 15.6 points and 9.7 rebounds per game in the 2021-22 season, with impressive shooting percentages, including 79% from the field and 63% from beyond the arc.In the AAU circuit, Socka-Nguemen played for Team Durant in the Nike Girls EYBL, where she continued to impress scouts and coaches alike. Her performances solidified her reputation as a dynamic forward capable of impacting the game on both ends of the floor.Choosing UCLA for her collegiate career, Socka-Nguemen joined a Bruins team that would go on to make a Final Four appearance in the 2024-25 season. However, her freshman year was marred by an injury that sidelined her for two months, limiting her contributions to the team. Despite the setback, she appeared in 16 games, averaging 1.5 points and 1.5 rebounds in just over five minutes per game. Her limited playing time was also influenced by a crowded frontcourt rotation featuring standout forwards such as Timea Gardiner, Janiah Barker, and Angela Dugalic.Recognizing the need for a fresh start and more significant opportunities, Socka-Nguemen entered the transfer portal and ultimately chose Indiana as her next destination. Her decision to join the Hoosiers is seen as a strategic move for both the player and the program. Coach Moren has been vocal about her desire to enhance the team’s size and athleticism, and Socka-Nguemen’s skill set fits that mold perfectly.Analysts have noted Socka-Nguemen’s potential as a multi-positional big with the ability to defend the rim, move effectively on the perimeter, and contribute offensively both inside and out. Her athleticism and defensive instincts are expected to add a new dimension to Indiana’s playstyle. Moreover, her experience at a high-caliber program like UCLA brings a level of maturity and understanding of competitive basketball that will benefit the Hoosiers.With three years of eligibility remaining, Socka-Nguemen has ample time to develop and make a significant impact in Bloomington. Her arrival is anticipated to bolster Indiana’s frontcourt depth and provide the team with a versatile forward capable of influencing the game in multiple facets. As the Hoosiers aim to build upon their recent successes, the addition of a player of Socka-Nguemen’s caliber could prove pivotal in their pursuit of conference and national accolades.In summary, Zania Socka-Nguemen’s commitment to Indiana represents a promising development for the women’s basketball program. Her combination of size, skill, and experience positions her as a valuable asset, and her presence is expected to contribute significantly to the team’s aspirations in the coming seasons.
