Iowa women’s basketball frosh confirms 2026-27 return

Amid a series of transfer portal departures that include freshman guard Addie Deal , sophomore guard Callie Levin , and junior guard Kennise Johnson , Iowa women’s basketball freshman center Layla Hays confirmed Tuesday night that she'll be returning to the Hawkeyes in 2026-27. Given the recent flux in the program's roster structure due to the offseason transfer portal allowing players to seek opportunities elsewhere without penalty, Hawkeyes fans were a bit worried that the 6-foot-5 native of Wasilla, Alaska, would join the trio of outgoing players. Fortunately, Iowa and its fans have received what appears to be confirmation that Hays will be suiting up for the Hawkeyes next season in a reply on X under her own tweet supporting future teammate McKenna Woliczko's appearance in the 2026 McDonald's Girls' All-American Game .

I am! 💛 — Layla Hays (@LaylaHays2) April 1, 2026 In her 31 games played this past season, Hays averaged 4. 0 points on 50.

5% shooting, to go along with 0. 5 assists, 0. 3 steals, and 0.

3 blocks across 9:50 of playing time per contest. Despite sitting behind sophomore center Ava Heiden on the depth chart, Hays certainly adapted her game as the season progressed and will look to make a leap in production similar to Heiden next fall. As for the outlook on the Hawkeyes' scholarship allocation , Hays' return gives the program significant relief, as Iowa currently has no centers outside of her and Heiden.