In a stunning move that has sent shockwaves through the college basketball world, twin sisters Haley and Hanna Cavinder, the talented sophomore point guards from the University of Miami, have announced their decommitment from the Miami Hurricanes. The dynamic duo has signed with the University of Wisconsin Badgers Women’s Basketball team, choosing the Big Ten program over a host of other high-profile schools, including Penn State and Nebraska.
The Cavinders, who became household names as freshmen with their electric performances at Miami, had been major contributors to the Hurricanes’ success. However, after months of speculation regarding their future, they made the bold decision to leave the program and embark on a new chapter of their college careers in Madison, Wisconsin.
A Surprise Move in the Transfer Portal
The Cavinders’ decision to decommit from Miami came as a shock to many. The duo, known for their scoring ability, leadership, and court vision, were integral to Miami’s rise to national prominence in recent years. With the Hurricanes entering the 2025 season as one of the top teams in the NCAA, the Cavinders’ sudden departure raised eyebrows across the basketball landscape.
Haley, a 5-foot-6 point guard, is known for her incredible ball-handling skills and ability to run an offense. Hanna, the slightly taller 5-foot-8 guard, brings a scoring punch with her sharp shooting and impressive athleticism. Together, they formed one of the most formidable backcourt duos in college basketball.
While both players’ decommitment sent ripples through Miami’s program, it was quickly followed by an announcement that the sisters had signed with Wisconsin. The Badgers had been aggressively recruiting the Cavinders for months, and their persistence paid off. Wisconsin’s strong coaching staff, led by head coach Marisa Moseley, played a key role in swaying the Cavinders’ decision.
The Wisconsin Advantage
The Cavinders’ decision to join the Wisconsin Badgers over other prestigious programs like Penn State and Nebraska highlights the strong allure of the Big Ten Conference. Known for its competitive balance and passionate fanbase, the Badgers’ program, although traditionally not a perennial powerhouse, has been steadily building momentum. Wisconsin offers a unique blend of academic excellence, athletic development, and an opportunity for immediate playing time.
Haley and Hanna both mentioned the importance of their close-knit relationship, with Wisconsin’s family-like culture and commitment to player development serving as deciding factors in their decision. The Badgers’ style of play, which emphasizes ball movement, fast breaks, and a balanced offensive system, fits well with the Cavinders’ strengths.
“We feel incredibly blessed to have had the opportunity to play at Miami, but we’re excited to start this next chapter at Wisconsin,” said Haley Cavinder. “The coaching staff and the culture they’ve created really resonated with us. We’re eager to contribute to the program’s growth and bring our energy to the Big Ten.”
What This Means for Wisconsin and the College Basketball Landscape
The addition of Haley and Hanna Cavinder to the Wisconsin roster represents a major coup for the Badgers. Their skills, leadership, and experience will immediately bolster the team’s backcourt and add a new dimension to the offense. The Cavinders’ signing is also a statement about the growing strength of the Big Ten in women’s basketball, as the conference continues to attract top-tier talent from across the nation.
For Miami, this loss is undoubtedly a blow, but it is one that they will look to recover from with their deep recruiting pool and an established foundation. Meanwhile, schools like Penn State and Nebraska, which were also in the running for the Cavinders’ signatures, will have to adjust their recruiting efforts moving forward.
In the end, the Cavinders’ decision is a game-changer that will have a significant impact on the landscape of women’s college basketball for years to come.
