Clovis West Star Ryleigh Schoonover Starts at Fresno State

Ryleigh Schoonover will play her first college basketball game less than two weeks from now.

The former Clovis West Golden Eagles point guard has joined the Fresno State Bulldogs for the 2026 season. She is part of a freshman class that will suit up in the Pac-12 conference.

Schoonover chose to stay in the Central Valley rather than attend school elsewhere. She said wearing the valley V on her chest is a unique experience that outsiders often do not understand.

Fresno State head coach Ryan McCarthy called Schoonover the best player in the area for the 2026 class. He stated that she proved her ability right away after joining the team.

Schoonover brings experience from a high school program that won Central Section championships for 14 consecutive years. Clovis West coach Craig Campbell said the team aims to compete at a high level every single year. He noted that the goal is to keep knocking on the door even if they do not always win the title.

McCarthy said Schoonover is ready for the physical and mental demands of college basketball because of her background in a winning program. He said the expectation is high because her high school team only won. Schoonover credited Campbell for preparing her, noting that the standard of play is the same at both levels.

The Bulldogs will open their season against UC Merced. Schoonover will play her first home game at the Save Mart Center. Campbell believes Schoonover is still developing and has not reached her full potential as a college player.