A new era is dawning for Auburn women’s basketball, and a significant piece of that future has just been cemented with the signing of Angena Belloso, Spain’s towering 5-foot-11 guard. Her commitment to the Plains represents a major coup for Coach Johnnie Harris’s program, signaling a growing international reach and an exciting injection of talent and versatility into the Tigers’ roster. This acquisition is not just about one player; it’s a statement of intent, showcasing Auburn’s ambition to compete at the highest levels of collegiate women’s basketball by strategically recruiting global talent.
Belloso arrives at Auburn with a collegiate career already spanning two prior institutions, bringing invaluable experience and a proven track record. She spent the last two years at Florida International University (FIU) where she was a significant contributor, playing in 24 games last season and averaging 7.9 points, 3.6 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.7 steals per game. Her statistics highlight her all-around game, demonstrating her ability to impact the game in multiple facets beyond just scoring. Notably, she helped FIU finish as the second-best team in Conference USA in 2024, showcasing her ability to contribute to a winning program. Before her time at FIU, Belloso played at St. Francis College (NY) during the 2022-23 season, where she helped her team reach the NEC Tournament Semifinals. Her collegiate journey thus far underscores her adaptability and her capacity to integrate into different team systems, a crucial attribute for a player joining a new program.
What makes Angena Belloso a particularly intriguing addition for Auburn is her unique blend of size and skill for a guard. At 5-foot-11, she possesses the height to see over defenders, rebound effectively from the guard position, and disrupt passing lanes on defense. Her Spanish roots bring a distinctive style of play often characterized by high basketball IQ, fundamental soundness, and excellent passing vision. European guards are often known for their disciplined approach to the game, their ability to shoot consistently, and their knack for making the right play – qualities that will undoubtedly elevate Auburn’s offensive fluidity and defensive cohesion. Her experience playing in Spain’s Under-18 LF-2 League for Femeni Sant Adria, where she averaged impressive numbers (15.4 points, 7.3 rebounds, 6.3 assists, and 5.1 steals) and earned team MVP honors, further speaks to her well-rounded game and leadership capabilities even at a young age.
For Coach Johnnie Harris, Belloso’s signing is a testament to the program’s strategic recruitment efforts. Harris has been actively building the Auburn roster with a mix of talented high school recruits, impactful transfers, and now, international prospects. The addition of Belloso expands Auburn’s global footprint and demonstrates a willingness to cast a wide net in search of the best talent. International players often bring a different perspective, a unique skill set, and a high level of professionalism that can enrich the team dynamic. Belloso’s arrival will likely open doors for future international recruitment, as her success could serve as a beacon for other aspiring global talents looking to compete in the highly competitive SEC.
Belloso’s role at Auburn could be multifaceted. Her versatility as a guard allows her to play both on or off the ball, providing flexibility for Coach Harris in designing offensive sets. Her passing ability, evidenced by her 2.6 assists per game last season at FIU, suggests she can be a reliable ball-handler and facilitator, creating opportunities for her teammates. Her rebounding numbers as a guard are also impressive, indicating her commitment to crashing the boards and helping the Tigers control the glass. Defensively, her size and 1.7 steals per game indicate her potential to be a disruptive force, contributing to Auburn’s overall defensive identity. The SEC is a league known for its physicality and athleticism, and Belloso’s well-rounded game and international experience should prepare her well for the challenges of conference play.
The signing also comes at a time when Auburn women’s basketball is actively seeking to elevate its standing within the SEC and nationally. While the football program often captures headlines, the women’s basketball team is steadily building a strong foundation under Coach Harris. Adding a player of Belloso’s caliber and international background demonstrates a commitment to assembling a roster that can compete with the traditional powerhouses of the conference. Her presence will not only boost the talent level but also potentially raise the team’s profile, attracting more attention and more recruits.
Beyond the court, Angena Belloso’s presence on the Plains will undoubtedly enrich the cultural diversity of the Auburn athletics community. International student-athletes bring unique perspectives, experiences, and traditions that contribute to a more vibrant and inclusive campus environment. Her journey from Montgat, Spain, to Auburn, Alabama, is a testament to the global nature of collegiate sports and the opportunities it provides for cultural exchange.
As the Auburn women’s basketball team prepares for the upcoming season, the anticipation around Angena Belloso’s integration into the squad will be high. Her “towering” presence as a guard, coupled with her proven skills and international experience, makes her one of the most exciting new additions to the team. This signing isn’t just about filling a roster spot; it’s about making a strategic move that enhances the program’s talent, expands its global reach, and reinforces its commitment to building a competitive and respected team. The team, coaches, and the entire Auburn Family extend a warm “Greetings from the Team of…” to Angena Belloso as she embarks on this new chapter of her collegiate career on the Plains. Her contributions are eagerly awaited as Auburn continues its pursuit of excellence in women’s basketball.
