In a recent twist in the women's college basketball transfer portal, the Iowa Hawkeyes have missed out on a top target. Despite a visit to campus and strong mutual interest, former Western Illinois guard Raegan McCowan has announced her commitment to the Houston Cougars of the Big 12. The 6-foot guard from Lebanon, Missouri, brings two years of eligibility and a proven scoring touch to her new team.

McCowan's decision is a notable one for Iowa, which has been active in reshaping its roster. Last season, she averaged 17.0 points and 6.4 rebounds per game, shooting an impressive 47.8% from the field—all despite a season-ending elbow injury that limited her to just 10 games. Over her collegiate career, she has posted averages of 20.4 points and 7.7 rebounds, with shooting splits of 46.5% from the floor, 33.8% from beyond the arc, and 78.6% from the free-throw line. In her healthiest season (2024-25), she started 34 games and led her team with 22.3 points and 7.9 rebounds per game.

While the Hawkeyes were eager to add a player of McCowan's caliber, the timing may not have been ideal. Iowa has already brought in three guards through the transfer portal this offseason, creating a crowded backcourt. The current depth chart features point guard Chit-Chat Wright, along with Taylor Stremlow, Dani Carnegie, Amari Whiting, Jocelyn Faison, and Journey Houston. With that logjam, the promise of more immediate playing time in Houston likely sealed the deal for McCowan.

For fans of the Hawkeyes, this is a reminder of the competitive nature of the transfer portal—even top programs have to make tough choices. For McCowan, it's a fresh start with a Big 12 program looking to build around her versatile scoring ability.