News Summary

Gianna Kneepkens, a standout guard previously with the Utah Utes, is transferring to UCLA for the 2025-26 season. Known for her scoring ability and resilience after battling an injury, she aims to contribute to the Bruins’ championship hopes while also mentoring young talents in her hometown of Duluth. Kneepkens’ journey symbolizes the growing influence of basketball in Duluth and promises to inspire the next generation of athletes.

Exciting Times Ahead for UCLA as Former Utah Star Gianna Kneepkens Joins the Team

In the charming city of Duluth, Minnesota, where the love for hockey often takes center stage, one local basketball star is making waves beyond the frozen rinks. Gianna Kneepkens, a remarkable graduate guard, is transferring to the UCLA women’s basketball team for the 2025-26 season. With a heart full of determination and a passion for the game, Kneepkens embodies the spirit of resilience, competition, and growth.

A Journey from Duluth Driveways to Championship Dreams

Gianna’s basketball odyssey began humbly in her driveway in Duluth, where she often found herself competing against her five older brothers. Growing up in a family of boys sharpened her competitive edge and fueled her love for sports. Interestingly, during her early years, Gianna gravitated towards soccer, even earning two All-State selections before fully committing to basketball in middle school.

Graduating from Duluth Marshall High School was a monumental achievement for Kneepkens; she made a name for herself by setting a state tournament record with an astounding 67 points in a single game and averaging an impressive 43.1 points per game during the 2021 state tournament. Her competitive nature was noteworthy, as she relished challenges and continually sought self-improvement.

The Road to UCLA: Challenges and Triumphs

After an exceptional four-year stint with the Utah Utes, Kneepkens faced a significant setback when she broke her foot, sidelining her for the entire 2023-24 season. Despite this injury, she had already established herself as one of the most sought-after players in the country, being ranked the No. 4 transfer nationally by ESPN. Kneepkens earned accolades such as Pac-12 Freshman of the Year and made the Pac-12 First Team All-Conference in her first two years at Utah. Even in a limited time, she showcased her talent with impressive statistics, including a remarkable 54% shooting from three-point range in her initial eight games of the 2023-24 season.

UCLA Welcomes a New Asset

Joining UCLA isn’t just a career move for Kneepkens; it’s an opportunity to contribute to a team poised for success. With guard Londynn Jones departing, her arrival is expected to fortify the Bruins’ backcourt significantly. Coach Cori Close emphasized that Kneepkens is the ‘perfect piece’ for the team’s championship aspirations, praising her scoring prowess, intense work ethic, and exceptional basketball IQ.

Team Spirit and Bonds Beyond Basketball

Kneepkens is dedicated to helping the Bruins clinch a national championship, and her commitment is evident as she trains vigorously with her new teammates. She believes in the essence of teamwork, enjoying bonding sessions outside of practice, including beach trips and team outings. These relationships have further ignited her passion for the sport, as she’s not just building on-court skills but also nurturing friendships that could last a lifetime.

A Bright Future on and off the Court

On the horizon, Kneepkens is projected to be a first-round selection in the 2026 WNBA draft, showcasing the bright future that lies ahead for this talented athlete. Even more exciting is Gianna’s role as a mentor to Chloe Johnson, a rising sophomore from Duluth and the top-ranked player in her class. Johnson, who has already surpassed 2,000 career high school points, is following in Kneepkens’ footsteps, and their mentorship speaks volumes about the growing basketball culture in Duluth.

Growing the Game in Duluth

The basketball scene in Duluth is blossoming, with more young girls taking the sport seriously and aiming for success. Kneepkens’ journey from a small Minnesota town’s driveways to potential national championship glory at UCLA serves as an inspiration not only to future generations of basketball players but also emphasizes the importance of teamwork and determination in pursuing one’s dreams. As Gianna prepares for her next chapter at UCLA, it’s clear that her legacy in Duluth will live on, inspiring countless others to shoot for the stars on and off the court.

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