Indiana Reloads: Former 5-Star Talent Zania Socka-Nguemen Joins Hoosiers in Major Transfer Portal Win
After a tough end to the 2024-25 season, the Indiana Hoosiers women’s basketball program is making big moves to reshape its future—and Saturday brought a significant step forward. Indiana has landed former 5-star wing Zania Socka-Nguemen out of the transfer portal, a pickup that could be pivotal in their efforts to reload for the 2025-26 campaign.
The commitment was first reported by Talia Goodman of On3 Sports, and it signals a homecoming of sorts. Socka-Nguemen was heavily recruited by Indiana out of high school, but ultimately chose UCLA over the Hoosiers, Michigan, and Tennessee. Now, after a season of limited action in Westwood, she’s ready for a fresh start—and Indiana is ready to welcome her with open arms.
Socka-Nguemen arrives in Bloomington as part of a larger exodus from UCLA, which has seen several top players flee the program following a disappointing finish to their national title bid. Among those departing are fellow freshmen Elina Aarnisalo, Kendall Dudley, and Avary Cain, as well as veterans Janiah Barker and Londynn Jones. It’s a talent drain that Indiana has taken full advantage of.
During her freshman year, Socka-Nguemen saw limited minutes—averaging just over five per game in 16 appearances—but the upside is undeniable. She averaged 1.5 points and 1.5 rebounds per game while shooting 40% from the field and 66.7% from the free-throw line. Though her numbers were modest, her potential remains sky-high, especially in a system where she can grow and shine.
For Indiana, this move comes at a critical time. Following their Round of 32 loss to South Carolina in the NCAA Tournament, the Hoosiers saw several key contributors enter the portal, leaving the program in flux. With only a few returners expected for next season, head coach Teri Moren and her staff have been aggressive in the portal—and Socka-Nguemen is one of their biggest gets yet.
If the Hoosiers can tap into her high school form and develop her skill set, they may have landed a future star. At the very least, it’s a statement that Indiana is not just rebuilding—they’re reloading.