The Ole Miss Rebels women’s basketball program has been steadily making waves in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), showcasing significant growth and potential under the leadership of head coach Yolett McPhee-McCuin. Over the past four years, the Rebels have not only secured winning seasons, but they’ve also demonstrated a remarkable upward trajectory, raising expectations among fans and players alike.
Recently, Ole Miss made headlines with an impressive recruiting victory over fierce rivals, including the current NCAA champions, South Carolina. They successfully secured the commitment of talented point guard Lauren Jacobs, a promising player from South Carolina, as reported by Talia Goodman of On3 Sports. This event marks a pivotal moment for the program, highlighting Ole Miss’s increasing competitiveness in attracting top-tier talent.
Jacobs, drawing interest from a range of prestigious institutions such as Auburn, Clemson, Florida, Georgia, Penn State, Marquette, and Mississippi State, opted to join the Rebel family. Her decision, as she revealed in an interview with On3, stemmed largely from the deep-rooted connections and support she felt throughout her recruitment process.
“Coach Yo was the first Power 5 program to offer me,” Jacobs shared, emphasizing the significance of that early gesture. “I have been building my relationship with her ever since then – for over two years. The vision she has for her program and what she has accomplished at Ole Miss really resonated with me. On my official visit, meeting everyone at Ole Miss – they are just wonderful people there.” This kind of commitment to nurturing relationships showcases the Rebels’ dedication to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for their players.
Jacobs is no ordinary recruit; she’s recognized for her unique ability to blend playmaking with scoring efficiency. As a standout in the 2025 class, her skills will undoubtedly bolster Ole Miss as they continue to strive for excellence on the court.
In the wake of last season, the Rebels faced a bittersweet milestone when standout Marquesha Davis made the decision to enter the WNBA Draft, where she was later selected as the 11th overall pick by the New York Liberty. While losing a player of her caliber is a challenge, there’s a strong sense that Ole Miss is equipped to navigate this transition and uphold their competitive stature in the SEC.
Head coach McPhee-McCuin has adeptly utilized the transfer portal to reinforce her roster. The Rebels have welcomed three significant additions: former UCLA center Christeen Iwuala, former UT Arlington forward Starr Jacobs, and former Colorado guard Tameiya Sadler. While there was an initial commitment from former Michigan State guard DeeDee Hagemann, she has since chosen to transfer to Memphis, reminding us how dynamic and unpredictable recruitment can be in the collegiate sports landscape.
Looking ahead, returning players like Kennedy Todd-Williams and Madison Scott will be pivotal in driving the Rebels’ ambitions. With last season ending in a second-round exit in the NCAA Tournament, following a remarkable Sweet 16 appearance in 2023, there is a palpable determination within the program to build on their recent successes.
As the upcoming season approaches, the energy surrounding the Ole Miss Rebels is undeniable. Fans are hopeful, players are excited, and Coach Yo continues to inspire a sense of belief that anything is possible with hard work, dedication, and a little bit of Southern charm. With promising recruits like Jacobs joining the fold and valuable returnees ready to step up, there’s no telling how far this team can go. The journey may have its ups and downs, but one thing is clear: the Rebels are ready to make their mark.
