CRESTON, Iowa – The Southwestern Spartans women's basketball program is excited to announce the signing of LaiLah Austin, a 5-foot-7 guard from Olathe North High School in Kansas.

Austin brings a strong basketball background to the Spartans, having led her team to a district championship as a freshman and a runner-up finish as a sophomore. She earned honorable mention honors both years and helped her team reach the state tournament her senior season, finishing fourth.

Beyond basketball, Austin has demonstrated academic excellence, maintaining a 3.65-3.75 GPA throughout high school while excelling in a college prep curriculum. A multi-sport athlete, she also competed in varsity volleyball and cross country.

When asked why she chose Southwestern, Austin highlighted the program's culture and organization.

"I chose Southwestern because what I look for in a school is culture and the environment and how highly some of the players spoke on it," Austin said. "It has a better campus than most schools, also more clean than most. It seems very organized and put well together. Also, knowing that I can have a good impact on the team."

Head Coach Kori Zarzutzki is excited to welcome Austin to the program.

"LaiLah is a talented player who has been part of strong basketball programs," Zarzutzki said. "She has a great basketball IQ, can score on multiple levels, and is a big addition for us!"

Austin joins a growing class of recruits as the Spartans prepare for the upcoming season.