Carbondale Reporter

Kelly Bond-White, head coach of Southern Illinois University's women's basketball team, announced the signing of Alayna Kraus, a 5-foot-9 point guard, originally from Okawville, Illinois. Kraus, now an incoming sophomore, transfers from Oral Roberts University, where she was part of a team that participated in the WBIT tournament and was the Summit League Runner-Up.

"Alayna is a young lady we targeted in high school; however, timing is everything. We were waiting to see if our four-year starter would be able to be in the hospital taking nursing clinicals and return to the hardwood. By the time it worked itself out, Alayna was headed out West," Bond-White commented on the new recruit. Kraus is recognized for her strong vision, change of speed game, ability to score, and competitiveness.

"She's a kid that loves to compete and has a high IQ," Bond-White remarked, noting her efficient play despite limited opportunities at Oral Roberts. Kraus appeared in 15 games during her freshman year, achieving a 42.4% field goal percentage and a 38.5% success rate from beyond the three-point line.

Kraus had a successful high school career, contributing to back-to-back championships for Okawville, securing a Class 1A State Championship in 2023-24, and earning spots on several All-State teams. Bond-White added, "This is a young lady whose portal phone rang off the hook. However, she was intentional about coming home to Southern Illinois and being a spark to help us get this thing turned around."

Kraus is set to continue her education in Sports Administration at Southern Illinois University.

For ongoing updates, fans can follow Southern Illinois University Women's Basketball on various social media platforms or download the "Salukis" app.