‘Flip a coin’: Inside Aaliyah Chavez’s decision to pick Oklahoma women’s basketball.

When it comes to high school basketball recruiting, the spotlight often shines brightest on elite, five-star athletes with national profiles. Aaliyah Chavez, a talented guard from New Mexico, may not have had the same exposure as some of the top-rated recruits, but her journey to Oklahoma’s women’s basketball program has been equally compelling. In a decision that seemed nearly impossible to make at times, Chavez had her own moment of indecision, one that she candidly admitted to, even joking about flipping a coin to decide between her top two choices. But what went into the decision that ultimately saw her commit to the University of Oklahoma, and how did the process shape her both as an athlete and as a person?

This article takes an inside look at Aaliyah Chavez’s recruitment journey, the pivotal moments that led to her choosing Oklahoma, and why her decision was anything but simple. From the unique challenges of the recruitment process to the factors that tipped the scales in Oklahoma’s favor, we explore the deeper story behind her commitment to the Sooners and what it means for her future.

The Recruitment Process: Aaliyah Chavez’s Rising Star

Aaliyah Chavez’s basketball journey began in the heart of New Mexico, where she quickly developed into one of the state’s premier high school players. Known for her exceptional skills on both ends of the floor, Chavez became a standout guard who excelled as a scorer, playmaker, and leader. Her ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game made her a highly sought-after prospect in the recruiting world.

As a member of the 2025 class, Chavez was ranked as one of the top recruits in the nation, attracting the attention of several elite programs. While she wasn’t always on the same radar as some of the more high-profile five-star recruits, her talent, combined with her steady rise through the ranks, placed her in a position where programs were eager to make their case.

Chavez’s recruitment process was intense but also marked by some uncertainty. As a young player still evolving in her game, she had to weigh many factors in determining the best fit for her future. Basketball is, of course, a team sport, but her choice was more than just about finding the right roster— it was also about finding the environment that would help her grow as a player and a person.

The Final Decision: Oklahoma vs. the Field

In the final stages of her recruitment, Chavez found herself torn between Oklahoma and another prestigious program. The Oklahoma Sooners, led by head coach Jennie Baranczyk, had been a strong presence in the recruitment process from the start, frequently in contact with Chavez and offering a vision for the program that included growth, leadership, and an emphasis on player development.

Oklahoma women’s basketball is no stranger to success, having established itself as a consistent powerhouse in the Big 12 Conference. The team had a reputation for playing an up-tempo, exciting style of basketball— a style that aligned with Chavez’s skills. Under Baranczyk, Oklahoma had made strides toward competing for national championships, and their ability to develop individual talent was part of what initially caught Chavez’s eye.

On the other hand, Chavez’s other finalist was a program equally capable of offering her an impactful future. While Chavez hasn’t publicly shared many details about the second program, there was no question that it, too, presented an appealing option for her. Ultimately, the competition was fierce, and the choice was a difficult one.

It was during these final days of indecision that Chavez had an almost surreal moment where she jokingly told her family, “Maybe we should flip a coin.” While this may have been said in jest, the decision was much more complicated than simply picking the “lucky” option. Aaliyah wasn’t just choosing a basketball program—she was choosing her next step in life, her potential future as a student-athlete, and a place where she could nurture her personal growth on and off the court.

The Oklahoma Difference: What Drew Chavez In

When it came down to it, the decision to choose Oklahoma was based on a variety of important factors, each of which contributed to Chavez’s belief that Norman was where she belonged. So, what was it about the Sooners that ultimately tipped the scales in their favor?

1. The Relationship with Head Coach Jennie Baranczyk

One of the biggest factors in Chavez’s decision was the relationship she had developed with head coach Jennie Baranczyk. Baranczyk, who took over as Oklahoma’s head coach in 2021, quickly established herself as one of the brightest young coaches in the country. Her coaching philosophy emphasizes player development, a commitment to creating a family-oriented culture, and a focus on both individual growth and team success.

For Chavez, the bond she formed with Baranczyk was a crucial element in her final decision. “Coach Baranczyk really connected with me on a personal level,” Chavez shared. “She made me feel like I could really grow and develop my game there. I knew I wasn’t just going to be a part of a program—I was going to be part of a family.”

The recruiting process is often filled with conversations about systems, playing time, and basketball strategy, but for Chavez, the personal connection to her future coach was just as important as the basketball program itself. Baranczyk’s mentorship style and her commitment to helping players reach their full potential helped cement the Sooners as a perfect fit for Chavez.

2. The Style of Play

Oklahoma’s fast-paced, high-scoring style of play also aligned perfectly with Chavez’s strengths as a player. Known for her ability to push the ball in transition, make quick decisions, and score in a variety of ways, Chavez was attracted to a system that would maximize her strengths. Baranczyk’s philosophy of free-flowing basketball that encourages individual expression and creativity appealed to Chavez, who thrived in an environment where she could make an immediate impact.

The Sooners’ up-tempo offense, which emphasizes speed, versatility, and spacing, was an ideal match for Chavez, who envisioned herself being a key part of that system. The ability to play a style that catered to her skillset was something Chavez didn’t take lightly when making her decision.

3. The Potential for Immediate Impact

When selecting a program, many athletes want to know that they will have an opportunity to contribute early in their careers. For Chavez, Oklahoma presented an opportunity to make an immediate impact on a program that was consistently competing for championships. With the departure of key players and the need to fill crucial roles, Chavez saw an opportunity to step in and have her voice heard both on and off the court.

Oklahoma’s welcoming environment for new players and the emphasis on individual development provided Chavez with the assurance that she wouldn’t just be a part of a team—she would be a vital piece in the program’s continued growth. This potential for immediate playing time was another factor that helped sway her decision toward the Sooners.

4. The Campus and Community

Oklahoma’s campus and community also played a role in Chavez’s decision. During her visit to Norman, Chavez experienced firsthand the support and excitement surrounding the program. From the passionate fan base to the close-knit feel of the campus, Chavez immediately felt like she could thrive in such an environment. As someone who valued community and connection, the welcoming atmosphere of Oklahoma added to the allure of the school.

The Flip a Coin Moment: A Sign of the Tough Decision

Despite the factors that ultimately led to Chavez’s decision to pick Oklahoma, it’s clear that the process wasn’t easy. The “flip a coin” moment was not just a lighthearted quip but rather an illustration of how difficult the decision was for Chavez. Her recruitment had been full of soul-searching and weighing of personal values, basketball goals, and future potential.

The decision-making process was not about finding a clear-cut answer but about choosing the environment where she felt the most supported and where she could grow as both a player and a person. Though she ultimately made her decision with confidence, the road leading up to it was filled with uncertainty, just as many athletes experience during recruitment.

What’s Next for Aaliyah Chavez and Oklahoma Women’s Basketball?

As Aaliyah Chavez prepares to join the Oklahoma Sooners in 2025, the future looks bright for both her and the program. Oklahoma has been on an upward trajectory in women’s basketball under Jennie Baranczyk’s leadership, and the addition of a dynamic talent like Chavez will only continue to elevate the team. Chavez’s ability to score, lead in transition, and contribute in all facets of the game will make her a key player for Oklahoma in the coming seasons.

For Chavez, the decision to commit to Oklahoma was one of the most important of her life, but it’s also just the beginning. As she steps onto the court for the Sooners, she will have the opportunity to make her mark on a program with big aspirations, knowing that she made the right choice in finding a place where she could thrive.

In the end, while flipping a coin may have been a moment of humor and indecision, Aaliyah Chavez’s choice to join Oklahoma was grounded in careful thought, deep connections, and the desire to grow both as an athlete and an individual. The Sooner Nation is sure to be excited to see what this rising star brings to the team in the seasons to come.