In a significant boost to their 2025 recruiting class, the Oklahoma State Cowgirls have secured a commitment from four-star guard Lena Girardi. Ranked No. 79 in the espnW 100, Girardi chose Oklahoma State over notable programs such as Auburn, Alabama, Clemson, and others. Her decision marks a pivotal moment for the Cowgirls as they continue to build a competitive roster under head coach Jacie Hoyt.
A Promising Talent
Hailing from Bradenton, Florida, Girardi has made a name for herself at IMG Academy, where her performance on the court has garnered national attention. Standing at 6 feet tall, she brings a versatile skill set to the guard position, characterized by her aggressive drives to the basket and a knack for drawing fouls. Girardi’s competitive nature and relentless work ethic have been central to her development and success.
“I’m such a competitive person,” Girardi stated in an interview. “I take pride in being the hardest worker on any team I’m on. That’s what got me to where I am today.”
The Recruitment Journey
Oklahoma State emerged as a strong contender in Girardi’s recruitment relatively late in the process. Despite this, the connection she established with Coach Jacie Hoyt and the coaching staff played a decisive role in her commitment. Girardi was particularly impressed by the genuine interest and belief the coaches demonstrated in her potential contributions to the team.
“The connection that I had with Jacie [Hoyt], and just the way that she believed in me and her vision for me, was really a big thing for me,” Girardi explained. “The way that she came after me, and everything she did to show me that she wants me. We just connected right away.” citeturn0search6
This strong rapport led Girardi to take an official visit to Oklahoma State over Labor Day weekend. The experience solidified her decision, leading her to cancel subsequent visits to other institutions. She also considered offers from Arizona, Northwestern, North Carolina, and Virginia Tech, among others.
A Legacy of Athletic Excellence
Athleticism runs in Girardi’s family. She is the daughter of Joe Girardi, a former Major League Baseball player and manager, notably with the New York Yankees. Growing up in a sports-oriented household, Lena has been exposed to high-level competition and the dedication required to excel from an early age. This background has undoubtedly influenced her approach to the game and her commitment to continuous improvement.
Impact on Oklahoma State
Girardi’s commitment is a significant milestone for the Cowgirls’ 2025 recruiting efforts. As the first signee of the class, she sets a high standard for future recruits. Her versatility as a guard, combined with her competitive drive, is expected to make an immediate impact on the team’s performance.
Coach Jacie Hoyt’s success in securing Girardi’s commitment reflects the program’s upward trajectory and the coaching staff’s dedication to attracting top-tier talent. The addition of Girardi not only enhances the team’s roster but also signals to other prospective recruits that Oklahoma State is a formidable destination for athletes aiming to compete at the highest level.
Looking Ahead
With Girardi set to join the Cowgirls in the 2025 season, anticipation is building around how her skills will integrate into the team’s dynamics. Her ability to attack the basket and draw fouls will add a new dimension to Oklahoma State’s offensive strategies. Moreover, her defensive tenacity and height advantage at the guard position will be valuable assets on both ends of the court.
The commitment also underscores the importance of relationship-building in the recruitment process. Girardi’s connection with Coach Hoyt and the coaching staff was a decisive factor in her decision, highlighting the impact of personalized recruitment approaches.
As the Cowgirls continue to prepare for the upcoming seasons, the addition of Lena Girardi represents a promising step toward achieving their competitive goals. Her talent, combined with the program’s supportive environment, sets the stage for a successful partnership that could elevate Oklahoma State’s standing in collegiate women’s basketball.
In conclusion, Lena Girardi’s commitment to Oklahoma State is a testament to her trust in the program’s vision and the coaching staff’s belief in her abilities. As she transitions from a standout high school athlete to a collegiate competitor, the Cowgirls and their supporters eagerly await the contributions she will bring to the team.