Class of ‘28 Starts The Recruiting Process
For many girls' basketball players in the Class of 2028, June 15th marked a significant milestone. It is the first day many NCAA D1, D2, and D3 coaches can begin direct communication with recruits, making it one of the most anticipated dates on the recruiting calendar.
For Riverbend and Virginia Valkyries standout D’anna Kofie, that moment seems to have arrived faster than expected.
“I did not know time was moving so fast,” Kofie said.
As the coaches' calls can start coming now, Kofie is focused on putting herself in the best possible position by continuing to develop her game and showing coaches how much she has improved.
“One way I’m preparing is making sure I put in as much practice as I can so when game time comes and the live periods start up again, the coaches will look at me and see my improvements,” Kofie said.
Kofie credits much of her recruiting exposure to her experience with the VA Valkyries. The program competes on both the PUMA Hoops and MADE Hoops circuits, giving players opportunities to showcase their skills in front of college coaches and recruiters.
“Playing for the VA Valkyries is giving me a lot of exposure because we are playing on two huge basketball circuits,” Kofie said. “They get a whole bunch of recognition on their own, so being a part of that is a huge plus. We also have live periods where college coaches could even be at your game watching you courtside.”
When coaches show up to her game and evaluate her, Kofie hopes they take away more than just her stats. She takes pride in both her shooting ability and the energy she brings to her team.
“When I play, I hope that coaches see my shooting ability because I know I’m no Stephen Curry, but I’ll knock down shots and do my best on both ends,” she said.
Kofie believes being a supportive teammate is just as important as putting up her stats.
“As a teammate, you will see me cheering on my teammates whether it’s from the bench or on the court, win or lose, because I really enjoy being around them and they are great people,” Kofie said.
Like many student-athletes, Kofie has faced challenges balancing academics with the demands of basketball. Between high school basketball, AAU competition, recruiting expectations, and difficult coursework, finding enough time for everything has been a struggle.
“Balancing school, high school basketball, AAU basketball, and recruiting expectations is honestly quite stressful,” she said.
Despite the stress, Kofie successfully completed both the school year and basketball season and is now looking ahead to the opportunities that await her.
As coaches begin reaching out, she already knows what factors will matter most when evaluating potential college destinations.
“The deciding factors will be if I feel comfortable with the coach,” Kofie said. “[When] and if I go on tours of schools, I want to imagine myself staying at that college.”
Kofie also values finding a team where she feels she truly belongs.
“When I get to meet the team, I want to feel like I belong with them,” Kofie said. “I just want to find that connection with the coach and the players.”
Beyond basketball, Kofie hopes to find a college environment that allows her to stay focused and productive.
“I just want a peaceful environment where I know I can get work done and stay focused,” Kofie said.
As June 15th approaches, best of luck to all Class of 2028 athletes as they begin navigating the exciting yet stressful recruiting process and pursue the opportunity to compete at the next level.
