The SPIRE Academy Women’s Basketball program enters the season with four players already committed to Division I universities, reinforcing the program’s reputation for elite development and national exposure.

Saniyah Hall – USC

Saniyah Hall, ESPN’s No. 1 ranked player in the Class of 2026, has committed to the University of Southern California. Hall will play her only season at SPIRE this fall, with her college decision allowing her to focus entirely on development and competition.

Hall said, “I chose USC because I felt like it was a home away from home. The team, staff and atmosphere in general felt like family.” She added, “Something I’m looking forward to the most is getting to play with my teammates and winning a national championship!”
Coach Dooley praised Hall’s potential impact: “Saniyah will be a centerpiece for a USC program that should compete for national championships year in and year out.”

Ariyana “Peanut” Cradle – Louisville

Ariyana “Peanut” Cradle has committed to the University of Louisville. The Senior guard is known for her athleticism and playmaking ability, and her early commitment provides a strong foundation heading into her lone season at SPIRE.

Cradle said, “I picked Louisville because when I stepped into the gym with the team and the coaches, I got this feeling that can’t really be explained. Everything just felt right. I know with that coaching staff and that team, we have a chance to do great things. I’m looking forward to getting better and winning games with my teammates.”
On Cradle, Coach Dooley highlighted her fit at the next level: “Peanut, a top-100 ranked player, is joining a Louisville program that consistently finds success in the ACC and NCAA tournament.”

Gianel-Iman “Gigi” Quist – VCU

Returning for her senior season, Gigi Quist has committed to Virginia Commonwealth University after developing her game throughout her junior year at SPIRE. Her versatility and defensive tenacity caught the attention of several programs, but VCU stood out early.

Quist said, “From the moment I got to VCU, I knew it was the right place for me. I connected with the coaches and the team, and I’m confident it’s where I can grow and take my game to the next level.” She added, “Next year, I am looking forward to being a game changer. I’m focused on competing at a high level, pushing myself to keep improving and determined to win the championship with my new team.”
Coach Dooley emphasized Quist’s progression: “Gigi is joining a VCU program and coaching staff that has won both regular season and conference championships in the A10.”

Frankie McLain – University at Albany

New to the program this year, Frankie McLain joins SPIRE with her Division I commitment already secured. She will head to the University at Albany after completing her senior season.

 McLain said, “I chose Albany because they are a winning program and I can see myself having a lot of success and growth there. I also loved the coaches and the area around the school was awesome. I am looking forward to competing at the D1 level and showing that all my hard work, especially this year, will translate and help me next year.”
Coach Dooley added, “Frankie is on her way to the University at Albany, where they consistently win 25-plus games a year and have solidified themselves as one of the best mid-major programs in the country.”

Coach Dooley believes the early wave of commitments reflects the culture SPIRE is building.
“We are extremely excited to see Saniyah, Peanut, Gigi and Frankie find their college home at the Division I level. Our program is lucky to have these amazing players and great student athletes, and we can’t wait to see them shine at the next level.”

For SPIRE, these commitments reinforce the Academy’s position as a launchpad for elite women’s basketball prospects. For the players, the decisions bring both relief and motivation, as each prepares to make their mark this season and beyond.

Stay connected with the SPIRE Women’s Basketball program throughout the 2025-26 season.