The Iowa State women’s basketball squad inked six players during the early signing period this past week.

“We are very excited about this recruiting class,” Fennelly said. “This could possibly be a breakthrough class. We filled and met some specific needs such a size and added some depth. I think they will all make a tremendous impact on the team.”

Angie Welle, Fargo N.D.; Tracy Gahan, McKinney, Texas; Alyssa Shriver, Salina, Kans.; Jessica Jackson, Belleville, Ill.; Ashley Homeyer, Oakbrook, Ill.; and Desiree Francis, Kirkwood Community College, will be joining Coach Bill Fennelly’s squad next year.

Welle is a 6’4″ center who is both a high school all-state basketball and volleyball performer. “This is the first true center we’ve had in a long time,” Fennelly said of Welle. “She plays great with her back to the basket.”

Gahan, whose brother, Jeff, swims at ISU, is one of the top three players in the state of Texas. At 6’1″, she can play either the off-guard, small forward or power forward position. She is touted as the best defender of the group.

Shriver and Jackson, who are both 6’3″, will fit nicely in Fennelly’s high/low interior play. Last year Shriver was named Kansas’ 5A player of the year, while Jackson was the top player in the St. Louis area.

Francis is a preseason Junior College All-American. “She is a tremendous athlete,” Fennelly said. “She has added a 3-point shot to her game so she can play both inside and out.”

Homeyer is expected to play wing for the Cyclones.

“I think we really sent a message,” Fennelly said. “My assistants really worked this to death. The kids appreciated the effort of our staff and we got kids that really want to be at Iowa State.”

In addition to their skills on the floor, the recruits also excel in academics. Each of the incoming freshman has a GPA of at least 3.8.