Northwestern Women’s Basketball has officially solidified its roster for the upcoming 2025-26 season with the strategic addition of a promising forward, completing a robust incoming class that signals a new era for the Wildcats.
The highly anticipated finalization brings particular attention to two formidable talents hailing from Spain: Sandra Moreno and Amparo López. Both players bring international experience and a competitive edge from their respective clubs, reinforcing the team’s global recruitment strategy.
Sandra Moreno, a 6-foot-1 forward, developed her skills over a decade with Basket Almeda in Barcelona, consistently demonstrating her scoring prowess by averaging 13 points in 31 games last season. Her extensive experience in national competitions, including direct matchups against López, underscores her readiness for high-level collegiate play.
Amparo López, previously with Valencia B.C., represents another significant Spanish acquisition for the Northwestern women’s basketball program. Her defensive capabilities and court vision complement Moreno’s offensive strengths, creating a well-rounded international dynamic within the team.
Beyond the Spanish duo, head coach Joe McKeown also secured the commitment of Angelina Hodgens, the highly-touted No. 2 recruit from New York. This three-player freshman class, alongside three key transfer additions, forms the foundation of a deeper and more versatile Northwestern Wildcats lineup.
The expanded roster projects to include 16 players for the 2025-26 women’s basketball season, a number permissible under a grandfathered NCAA rule. This temporary allowance will provide McKeown with enhanced rotational flexibility, though the team will revert to the standard 15-player limit in the 2026-27 season.
The 2025-26 season also marks a pivotal moment for the program as it will be Joe McKeown’s final year as head coach. Capping off an illustrious 40-year coaching career spanning New Mexico State, George Washington, and Northwestern, McKeown’s legacy is further cemented by this thoughtfully assembled incoming class.
With these strategic recruitments and a blend of new talent and experienced players, the Northwestern women’s basketball team is poised to build on its foundation. The incoming class, particularly the Spanish talents and top-ranked Angelina Hodgens, injects fresh energy and significant potential into the Wildcats’ future campaigns.