In a move that keeps her in the Big Ten, former Iowa women's basketball forward Teagan Mallegni has announced her transfer to the University of Wisconsin. The sophomore, who entered the transfer portal on its opening day, will have two years of eligibility remaining and returns to her home state, playing just nine miles from her alma mater, McFarland High School.
Mallegni's sophomore season with the Hawkeyes was hampered by a series of unfortunate setbacks. After missing Iowa's NCAA Tournament run last year with a concussion, she suffered an ankle injury in the preseason, delaying her debut. A tonsillectomy later in the fall further disrupted her rhythm, limiting her to just 15 appearances. The 6-foot-1 forward, known for her potential as a stretch-four, averaged 1.5 points and 1.3 rebounds in limited minutes.
Despite the challenges, Mallegni had a bright moment back in her home state against her new team. In Iowa's late-season blowout win over Wisconsin at the Kohl Center, she logged double-digit minutes and showcased her skills in front of friends and family. This homecoming performance may have been a glimpse of what's to come as she looks to revitalize her collegiate career with the Badgers.
For Wisconsin, landing a player with Big Ten experience and untapped potential is a significant addition. Mallegni will be looking to secure a more prominent role in the rotation and contribute to a program eager to climb the conference standings. This transfer underscores the dynamic nature of college basketball rosters and the pursuit of the right fit for both player and program.
