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AUSTIN, Texas — In a significant development for the University of Texas women’s basketball program, head coach Vic Schaefer proudly announced the signing of standout guard Aaliyah Crump on Wednesday. Standing tall at 6-1 and hailing from Shakopee, Minnesota, Crump has earned a prestigious ranking as the fifth-best player on the espnw top 100 list, solidifying her status as a rising star in women’s basketball.
During her junior season, Crump showcased exceptional talent by averaging an impressive 24.4 points, 8.2 rebounds, 3.7 steals, and 3.3 assists per game. Her remarkable contributions were pivotal in leading her high school team, Minnetonka, to clinch the coveted 2024 4A State Championship title. Recognized for her outstanding performance, Crump is a two-time All-State honoree, team captain, and has also been esteemed as the 2024 MaxPreps Minnesota Player of the Year. Further highlighting her skills, she has made the watch list for the prestigious 2024-25 Naismith Trophy Girl’s High School Player of the Year award.
“I’m excited and proud to announce the signing of Aaliyah Crump to our program,” Texas head coach Vic Schaefer conveyed with enthusiasm. “Aaliyah is someone we identified several years ago as a young lady who would continue to develop into an elite basketball player and someone who could be an incredible student athlete here at The University of Texas. She is already a state champion and a USA Basketball gold medalist, and I believe the best is yet to come for her future in our program.”
Crump’s international experience is noteworthy; she has been a valuable member of USA Basketball since 2022. In 2023, she contributed significantly to the USA Women’s U16 National Team, helping them achieve a Gold Medal triumph at the FIBA Americas Championship held in Merida, Mexico. On this platform, she ranked second on the team in both made three-pointers and three-point shooting percentage, underlining her sharpshooting abilities.
Crump comes from an athletic family; she is the daughter of Ashley Wolf and Michael Crump, both of whom played collegiate sports at Central Methodist University in Fayette, Missouri. “Aaliyah comes from an incredible family,” Schaefer praised. “Her dedication to the game is evident, and her skill set is off the charts. Her elite court vision coupled with her ability to score makes her a rare talent. She possesses the ability to stretch the floor well beyond the three-point line, and her capacity to elevate over defenders to create her own shot is impressive. These remarkable qualities certainly distinguish her and position her as a future collegiate and professional basketball star. Aaliyah will undoubtedly infuse our program with intensity, an elite work ethic, and a winning mentality. In summary, Aaliyah Crump represents the total package, and our women’s basketball program at The University of Texas just secured a phenomenal addition.”
Throughout her basketball journey, Crump has been fortunate to receive mentorship from a distinguished cadre of coaches, including Bill Larson at North Tartan, Dickson Jenson at All Iowa Attack, and Brian Cosgriff at Minnetonka High School, along with Marqus McGlothan, currently coaching at Eastern Illinois. Their guidance has been influential in shaping her into the exceptional player she is today.
Looking ahead, Crump intends to major in Sports Management and Marketing at Texas, revealing her ambition to excel both on and off the court. “I chose Texas women’s basketball because from day one the coaches made the program feel like home to me,” Crump expressed. “The University of Texas will allow me to play the highest level of basketball and also receive a top-tier education. The coaching staff was very intentional in the way they recruited me and challenged me to be my best every day. I’ve always dreamt of playing for a winning program, and I know that those dreams will come to life playing for Vic Schaefer and his amazing staff. This program is bound to make history, and I can’t wait to be a part of it.”
**Interview with Head Coach Vic Schaefer of the University of Texas Women’s Basketball Team on the Signing of Aaliyah Crump**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Coach Schaefer. Aaliyah Crump’s signing is a big moment for your program. What stood out to you about her as a player?
**Coach Vic Schaefer:** Thank you for having me! Aaliyah is an exceptional talent. Standing at 6-1, her combination of size and skill makes her unique. During her junior season, her stats spoke volumes—averaging over 24 points and 8 rebounds per game. But beyond the numbers, it’s her competitive spirit and ability to perform under pressure that truly set her apart.
**Interviewer:** She led her high school team to a state championship and received several accolades. How important do you think this experience will be as she transitions to collegiate basketball?
**Coach Schaefer:** Extremely important. Winning the 2024 4A State Championship instilled a sense of confidence and resilience in her. Success at the high school level, coupled with her experience with USA Basketball, means she knows how to compete at high levels and handle the expectations that come with it.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned her achievements with USA Basketball. How will that international experience benefit her in college?
**Coach Schaefer:** Competing on the international stage, especially helping the U16 team secure a gold medal, has given her exposure to different playing styles and high-pressure situations. That experience is invaluable and will help her adapt more quickly to the collegiate game, which is certainly more competitive.
**Interviewer:** Aaliyah comes from a family of athletes. How do you think that background influences her as a player?
**Coach Schaefer:** Coming from an athletic family, she has the advantage of understanding the dedication and hard work that goes into being an athlete. It fosters a strong work ethic and competitive drive, which we see reflected in her play. Her family’s legacy will support her as she navigates her journey here at Texas.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, what are your expectations for Aaliyah as she joins your program?
**Coach Schaefer:** We expect her to continue her growth and develop into an impact player for us. With her talent and mentality, I truly believe the best is yet to come. Our goal is to support her both academically and athletically so that she can reach her full potential—not just as a player but as a young woman.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your insights, Coach Schaefer. Exciting times ahead for Aaliyah and the Texas women’s basketball program!
**Coach Schaefer:** Thank you! We’re thrilled to have her on board.
