Ryleigh Schoonover Joins Fresno State Squad

Ryleigh Schoonover joins the Fresno State women's basketball team for the 2026 to 2027 season. She arrives as part of a freshman class that includes the former Clovis West star. The Bulldogs are currently pursuing a Pac-12 championship.

Schoonover spent her high school career at Clovis West. The Golden Eagles have won consecutive Central Section championships for the past 14 years. This long run has made title expectations part of the program's identity. Coach Craig Campbell stated the goal is to stay in the hunt every season. "We want to be good every year," he said. "We're not going to win it every year, but we want to be knocking on the door every year."

Schoonover decided to remain near home rather than leave the area. She said playing for Fresno State carries a special meaning. "To wear that valley 'V' on your chest, it's something different," Schoonover said, adding that most people outside the valley do not understand that. Schoonover arrives with a winning background after helping Clovis West claim section titles. She credited Campbell for preparing her for the demands of Fresno State coach Ryan McCarthy's program, saying that at both levels, "Everything is the standard."

McCarthy praised the newcomer upon her arrival. "In my opinion, Riley was the best player in the area for her class of 2026," McCarthy said. "Riley came in and proved that right away." McCarthy also noted her time in a championship program has readied her for what is expected in college. "She played with a very good high school basketball program here, and all they did to win," he said. "And so, that's the expectation when she sets out on the floor."

Her college debut is approaching. Fresno State's season opener against UC Merced is less than two weeks away. Schoonover is preparing to play her first game at the Save Mart Center.

Campbell, her former coach, believes the best is still to come. "I think that's one of the things that's so exciting for Coach McCarthy and the staff is she's just scratching the surface on what a gifted player she could be for them," he said.