Louisville Adds LSU Transfer Forward Amiya Joyner
Amiya Joyner, a forward who transferred from LSU, has committed to Louisville for the 2026-27 season. She averaged 9.2 points and 7.5 rebounds per game last season and previously played at East Carolina. Joyner is expected to add frontcourt depth for the Cardinals.
Joyner brings a proven scoring and rebounding resume to the Cardinals, having led East Carolina in production during her junior year before transferring to LSU. Her 32-point career high against Howard and multiple 20-rebound performances highlight her ability to dominate inside. She also earned AAC Freshman of the Year honors in 2023 and All-AAC First Team recognition in 2025.
Her eligibility stems from a court injunction in Louisiana granting an extra season, which allowed her to enter the transfer portal and join Louisville. Coach Jeff Walz gains frontcourt depth and physicality for a squad already projected as a preseason Top 15 team. The Cardinals open their 2026-27 campaign November 2 against Bellarmine at the KFC Yum! Center.
This transfer could reshape competitive balance in women's college basketball, as top programs increasingly benefit from eligibility rulings that extend athletes' careers. Fans may see deeper rosters and more experienced frontcourts, potentially raising the level of play in the ACC and NCAA tournament. The ruling's broader effect may encourage other players to seek similar extensions, altering roster planning and recruiting strategies across the sport.