Indiana Women’s Basketball Secures Key Backcourt Addition with Duquesne Transfer Guard Jerni Kiaku, Bolstering Depth and Experience Ahead of 2025 Campaign
Bloomington, IN –
In a strategic move that underscores Indiana’s commitment to building a championship-caliber roster, the Hoosiers have landed a significant addition to their backcourt with the transfer of Jerni Kiaku, a dynamic guard from Duquesne University. The 5-foot-6 rising star brings speed, experience, and an aggressive scoring mentality to an Indiana team poised for another strong showing in the Big Ten and beyond.
Kiaku’s arrival marks the latest development in Head Coach Teri Moren’s off-season strategy, which has centered around adding proven talent and versatile pieces to complement a returning core that includes All-American forward Mackenzie Holmes and standout guard Chloe Moore-McNeil. With Big Ten title aspirations and a deep NCAA Tournament run in sight, Kiaku’s experience and energy could prove pivotal.
Proven Production at Duquesne
During her sophomore season with the Duquesne Dukes, Kiaku quickly made a name for herself in the Atlantic 10 Conference. She averaged 13.3 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game, while shooting 41.2% from the field and displaying a knack for creating offense in transition.
A tenacious defender and vocal floor leader, Kiaku started in 29 of 30 games in the 2024 season and was named to the All-Atlantic 10 Third Team. Her standout performances included a 26-point outing against Saint Joseph’s and a game-winning three-pointer at the buzzer against UMass, moments that highlighted her composure under pressure.
“She’s a fierce competitor and a relentless attacker,” said Duquesne Head Coach Dan Burt. “Indiana’s getting a player who leaves everything on the floor every night. We’re proud of what she accomplished here and excited to see what she does on a bigger stage.”
A Welcome Addition to a Reloading Indiana Roster
For Indiana, Kiaku’s transfer helps address a key area of need following the graduation of veteran guards Sydney Parrish and Grace Berger in recent seasons. While the Hoosiers still boast strong perimeter talent, including Yarden Garzon and Lexus Bargesser, adding another proven scorer and ball-handler adds much-needed depth.
“Jerni is the kind of competitor we value in this program,” said Head Coach Teri Moren in a statement. “She brings energy on both ends of the floor, has great instincts as a scorer, and plays with the type of intensity that defines Indiana basketball. She’s going to fit in seamlessly with the culture we’ve built here.”
Kiaku’s ability to play both point and off-guard positions offers Moren the flexibility to experiment with different lineups and pace variations. Her speed in the open court also fits well with Indiana’s evolving offensive philosophy, which has placed greater emphasis on pushing tempo and creating early offense.
Embracing the Challenge
Kiaku, a native of Raleigh, North Carolina, expressed excitement about her next chapter in Bloomington.
“This is a dream opportunity,” she said. “Indiana has one of the best fanbases, best coaching staffs, and one of the strongest traditions in women’s basketball. I’m ready to work, grow, and help this team chase a national title.”
Her decision to transfer was reportedly influenced by Indiana’s player development reputation, strong NIL infrastructure, and academic support.
Looking Ahead
With summer workouts on the horizon, Kiaku will begin integrating into the Hoosiers’ system alongside fellow newcomers, including incoming freshman forward Amiyah Reynolds and JUCO All-American center Sierra Carson.
Analysts have already begun revising their early projections for Indiana’s 2025 campaign, with the Hoosiers now considered a top-10 team nationally. Kiaku’s presence gives Indiana another reliable option in late-game scenarios and a spark plug off the bench or in the starting five, depending on how rotations unfold.
“She’s a big-time get,” said Big Ten Network analyst Christy Winters Scott. “When you combine her with the talent already on Indiana’s roster, this team has the potential to be special.”
As the transfer portal continues to reshape college basketball, Indiana’s successful addition of Jerni Kiaku reflects both a savvy recruiting approach and a clear understanding of the demands of championship-level play.
With a roster full of grit, skill, and growing national respect, the Hoosiers aren’t just aiming fo
r March — they’re building for April.
