Scout Springgate | Hawkeyes Wire

Amid a series of transfer portal departures by freshman guard Addie Deal, sophomore guard Callie Levin and junior guard Kennise Johnson, Iowa women’s basketball freshman center Layla Hays confirmed Tuesday night that she’ll return to the Hawkeyes in 2026-27.

Given the recent roster changes due to transfer portal departures, Hawkeye fans were a bit worried that the 6-foot-5 native of Wasilla, Alaska, would join the outgoing players.

Fortunately, Iowa and its fans received confirmation that Hays will suit up for the Hawkeyes next season in a reply on X under her own post on X supporting future teammate McKenna Woliczko’s appearance in the 2026 McDonald’s All-American Game.

“I am!” Hays wrote in response to a fan that encouraged her to stay in Iowa City.

In her 31 games played this past season, Hays averaged 4 points on 50.5% shooting. Hays registered a career-high 20 points against Evansville on Nov. 9 and grabbed a career-high 10 rebounds against Drake on Nov. 13. Hays also notched her first career double-double against Drake. The Alaskan totaled 123 points and 78 rebounds in her freshman season.

Hays was a four-star signee and a top-100 recruit by ESPN. ESPN ranked her as the 70th player nationally and the top player from Alaska.