UCLA freshman forward Zania Socka-Nguemen has officially entered the NCAA transfer portal, per @TaliaGoodmanWBB on X. This season, the 6’3″ wing played 16 games, scoring an average of 1.5 points per game. Her minimal playing time was primarily due to a two-month injury break.
Top 5 Landing Spots for UCLA’s Promising Freshman Zania Socka-Nguemen
Despite a modest rookie year, she was a top-30 national recruit and a five-star prospect with a bright future. Now fully healthy, Socka-Nguemen is a name to keep an eye on in the portal, particularly for programs looking for size, athleticism, and two-way potential on the wings.
NEWS: Socka-Nguemen is officially in the portal, sources told @On3sports.
The 6-3 freshman averaged 1.5 ppg in 16 games this season.
She was injured and out for two months during the season, leading to limited minutes.
She was ranked #30 nationally as a recruit. https://t.co/mxmXBN1OGn
— Talia Goodman (@TaliaGoodmanWBB) April 9, 2025
1. University of Maryland – A Homecoming
Returning to her roots could provide Socka-Nguemen with a fresh start close to her family. Brenda Frese, Maryland’s head coach, has a successful track record with athletic wings and a fast-paced system that relies heavily on transition play, which is excellent for Socka-Nguemen’s length and movement.
The Terps have lost frontcourt depth in recent seasons, so the chance for immediate minutes is genuine. A comeback tale in her state? It would write itself.
2. UConn – A Powerhouse
The Huskies are associated with elite women’s basketball. Geno Auriemma’s program is known for developing high-potential athletes into flawless, WNBA-ready stars. Socka-Nguemen’s raw tools, defense, rebounding, and length fit perfectly into UConn’s system.
With a focus on development and a big national spotlight, UConn would provide her with the guidance and exposure she requires to live up to her recruiting expectations.
3. Stanford – An ACC Opportunity
If academics influence Socka-Nguemen’s decision, Stanford will become a significant contender. Coach Tara VanDerveer has established a reputation for creating versatile frontcourt players such as Cameron Brink and Haley Jones.
Stanford’s deliberate, half-court strategy might allow Socka-Nguemen to improve her perimeter game while learning from one of the finest in the field. It’s also still in the West, so expect a reasonably familiar conference environment.
4. South Carolina – A Defensive-Minded Powerhouse
Dawn Staley’s Gamecocks have become an oasis for high-motor, defensively gifted athletes, qualities that Socka-Nguemen possesses a lot. South Carolina values depth and development, allowing her to blossom into a rotation role.
If Socka-Nguemen wants to be a part of a culture that dominates the SEC and makes deep NCAA runs, Columbia might be calling.
5. Notre Dame – A Rebuilding Power
Notre Dame is on the upswing again under Coach Niele Ivey, who is building a roster stocked with talent and playmakers. The Irish have stressed agility and wing defense, so Socka-Nguemen is an excellent stylistic match.
Also Read: Which Power 5 Women’s Basketball Transfers Will Make the Biggest Impact in 2025-26?
She’d have a genuine opportunity to contribute while being part of a balanced system that promotes overall development.
Socka-Nguemen’s freshman stats could fall out, but she still possesses all of the features that made her a top-30 national prospect. Injuries disturbed her rhythm, but now that she’s healed and back in the portal, she’s ready to make an immense impact wherever she goes.
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