Mike McLaughlin, head coach of the University of Pennsylvania women’s basketball team, announced on May 8 the signing of four new student-athletes who will join the program in the fall. The incoming class includes Jayah Curtis, Ava Jones, Madison Kocis, and Rachel Thatcher from New Jersey and Tennessee.
The announcement introduces a group that McLaughlin described as “a highly competitive group with a work ethic that’s second to none. They truly love the game and are very invested in their development.” He said these players come from strong high school programs and understand what it takes to compete and win.
Jayah Curtis is a guard from Parsippany, New Jersey. She played at Montclair Immaculate Conception before finishing her senior year at Morris Catholic. Curtis was a McDonald’s All-American nominee in 2026 and earned several all-conference honors during her high school career. She said she chose Penn because “it immediately felt like home” after visiting campus.
Ava Jones is a forward from Memphis, Tennessee who played for Hutchinson School under coach Thomas Jones. Jones achieved regional championships throughout her high school years and was named region co-player of the year as a senior. She said she selected Penn based on “the coaches, the players already on the roster, and the way I meshed with my incoming freshman class.” McLaughlin described her as offering “tremendous flexibility in the post” due to her ability to play multiple positions.
Madison Kocis joins from Chatham, New Jersey where she attended Saint John Vianney High School. Kocis was recognized as first-team all-state in 2026 and set records for three-pointers made at her school. She cited Penn’s combination of Division I athletics and academic excellence as key factors in her decision.
Rachel Thatcher comes from Haddon Township, New Jersey after playing at Paul VI High School under Orlando Hidalgo. Thatcher earned MVP honors at county tournaments during her senior season and served as team captain for two years. She said she chose Penn because “a standard of greatness is set within its women’s basketball program.” According to McLaughlin: “Rachel is simply a winning player,” highlighting her intangibles that elevate those around her.
The addition of these four athletes aims to further strengthen Penn’s women’s basketball program heading into future seasons.
