Saluki Women's Basketball Welcomes First Two Signees of 2026 Class
11/20/2025 | 11:56:00 | Women's Basketball
CARBONDALE, Ill. – Southern Illinois University women's basketball is proud to announce the signing of two highly talented front-court players. Lynelle Awou and Chellise "Lysa" Jones will join the Saluki program in the fall of 2026 as the first members of the 2026 recruiting class.
"Homecoming weekend is always special," says head coach Kelly Bond-White about the two signee's visit at this year's Homecoming. "It's a reminder of what this university and community truly represent. Seeing past and present Salukis connect, network, and invest in one another is the heart of our culture. It is exactly how we were able to strengthen our front court with two incredible future Salukis."
A dominant interior presence, Awou, a 6-foot-4-inch center from United Township High School in Moline, brings balance and a relentless work ethic. Known for her strength and gritty style of play, she embodies the toughness required to make an immediate impact in the Missouri Valley Conference. Awou also competes with Example Sports, one of the top AAU programs in Illinois, and her resume includes being a two-time MVP, team captain, and a member of the National Honor Society. She plans to major in biological sciences with aspirations of pursuing anesthesiology during her time at Southern.
"Lynelle brings a proven winning background and a competitive mindset that aligns with the core values of SIU's program," says Coach Bond-White. "Known for her ability to run the floor and serving as a commanding defensive presence in the lane, she provides both physicality and consistency around the rim. The coaching staff emphasized the importance of recruiting student-athletes who understand what it takes to win, and Lynelle embodies that standard and is ready to contribute now.
A dynamic and multi-positional forward, Jones, a 6-foot-2-inch forward out of Chicago, brings the kind of spark and athleticism that elevates a roster. She enters her senior season at the storied Whitney M. Young Magnet High School having already recorded over 500 rebounds and has earned four City Championships. She is also on track to graduate with an associate's degree before stepping on campus at SIU. Jones' game is marked by her ability to rebound out of her area, an explosive first step, and strong finishing ability around the rim. She is a high-energy open court player, who can seamlessly slide into multiple positions, providing valuable versatility to the Salukis' future frontcourt. Along with Awou, Jones continues to refine her skill set against top-tier talent with Example Sports AAU program. Off the court, Jones plans to major in nursing while at Southern.
"Lysa joins the Salukis as a dynamic forward with significant long-term potential," says Coach Bond-White. "Coming from a championship-caliber environment, she understands the discipline and work ethic required to achieve sustained success. Her versatility allows her to compete at three positions, and her athletic profile mirrors the qualities of former All-Conference forwards who have excelled at SIU. With her ability to outwork opponents and contribute across multiple facets of the game, Lysa has a chance to make a strong impact on the program's future."
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