Ryleigh Schoonover Starts Fresno State Career at Save Mart Center

Ryleigh Schoonover has begun her college basketball career at Fresno State. The former Clovis West Golden Eagles player is part of a freshman class for the Bulldogs women's program. She chose to stay in the Central Valley rather than leave the area for another school.

Schoonover arrives with a history of winning. Clovis West girls basketball won Central Section championships for 14 consecutive years. Her former high school coach, Craig Campbell, noted that the program aims to compete for titles every year. He stated, "We want to be good every year.. we want to be knocking on the door every year."

Fresno State head coach Ryan McCarthy views Schoonover as a top local prospect. He rated her as the best player in the area for the class of 2026. McCarthy said she proved that assessment immediately upon joining the team. He added that her experience in a winning high school program sets a high expectation for her college play.

Schoonover said wearing the Fresno State uniform holds a special meaning for her. She described the feeling of wearing the valley V on her chest as distinct and noted that many people outside the region do not fully understand that sentiment.

Her transition from high school to college has involved adjusting to a similar standard of performance. Schoonover credited Campbell for preparing her for the demands of McCarthy's system. She observed that the baseline for effort and execution is consistent across both levels.

The Fresno State team is preparing for its season opener against UC Merced. The game is scheduled for less than two weeks from now. Schoonover will play her first college game at the Save Mart Center. Her former coach believes her current performance is just the beginning of her potential in the Pac-12 Conference.