COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA- The Iowa Western Women's Basketball team has announced the singing of three freshman to join the 2019-2020 team. The group includes Solape Amusan, Bella Sparaco, and Hayley Berfield.
The three true freshman are from across the United States and vary in position and talents. Head Coach Lindsey Vande Hoef is extremely excited about all three signees. "The three of these young ladies will make an immediate impact to our team next year. They all bring something different to the table but what they share is an intense desire to compete and to take their game to the next level."
Solape Amusan, a 6'1 forward, was the first to sign for the 2019 class. Solape will join the Reivers after a successful high school career at Woodbury High School in Minnesota. As team captain her junior and senior year she averaged 12.4 points per game, 7.8 rebounds per game, and 1.8 blocks per game. She was a two-time Suburban East all-conference recipient and involved in her school government as part of student council. Solape's history with basketball is unique, as she did not start playing until Middle School. She has been highly recruited at the NCAA Division 1 level for her skill level and size.
What Coach Vande is saying: "Solo was our first commit and signee for next year's team and she was exactly what we were looking for on the court, and she has the high character to match. Solo is an extremely grateful and hard working individual and we believe she will be a devoted team member in all areas. As a player she is strong, serious-minded, and skilled. She has the ability to play inside and on the perimeter and her size and ability to shoot the ball is what will set her apart from others. We are very excited that she has chosen to come to Iowa Western despite her other offers."
Bella Sparaco, a 5'11 forward, will joins the Reivers from Cherry Creek high school in Greenwood Village, Colorado. Sparaco played a pivotal role in her team winning the 2019 Class 5A State Championship. Her team was ranked Nationally #21 in USA Today Super Preps. Throughout her high school career Sparaco helped lead her team to a 49-7 Conference record and a 71-12 record in the state of Colorado. She was the team Captain, a 4-year varsity starter, a Colorado High School Coaches Association All-State selection, and an All-Centennial Conference Selection. In addition to her success on the court, she was an Academic All-State Selection.
What Coach Vande Hoef is saying: "Bella is no stranger to success as she comes from an extremely talented and successful pedigree both at her high school and her club program (Cherry Creek High School and BC Denver Basketball). She is a team player with a high motor and she takes pride in doing everything to the best of her ability. Bella has the competitive drive and will to succeed both on and off of the court. She is an excellent passer, rebounder, and defender. We are excited to see her game grow on the offensive end."
Hayley Berfield, a 5'7 guard, joins the Reivers after an outstanding season at Granada Hills Charter high school. Berfield was the Open division play of the year, all-city player of the year, all-league player of the year and was selected as an all-state 4th team selection. Berfield averaged 19.2 points per game, 3.5 rebounds per game, 1.4 assists per game, and 3.3 steals per game. For her efforts throughout her senior season she was one of seven females to receive the John Wooden award. The Wood Award recognizes outstanding Southern California high school boys and girls basketball players and the ceremony was presented in conjunction with the ESPN College Basketball Awards.
What Coach Vande Hoef is saying: "Hayley is a pure shooter with an offensive mind. She has a quick first step and has the ability to score at all three levels and she truly lives and breathes basketball. I am excited for her to join the Reiver family all the way from California. Hayley has the accolades and drive to play at an extremely high level and we are excited for her future."
