"It was kind of a reality check": Top 2025 recruit Sydney Benally on flipping her commitment from Princeton to a major Big 12 team

Sydney Benally, one of the top 2025 recruits who committed to Princeton back in October, made a dramatic u-turn on Friday. The Sandia senior combo guard shared with On3 about her decision to flip her commitment from Princeton and pledge her future to BYU. The 5-foot-8 point guard from Albuquerque (New Mexico) quoted the significant distance between her native homeland and Princeton as the primary reason to switch her allegiance.

“Over the holidays, it was kind of a reality check, knowing how far I’d be from home. I think that mostly played into the decision. I wanted to be closer to home and play in front of my family,” Benally told On3.

“BYU, being in Utah, is also a native country, so I’m excited about this chapter and getting to play on a big stage against competition in the Big 12,” she added.

Back in October, the Sandia senior standout announced her commitment with much pomp. It was in front of a large crowd at Bosque School that Benally revealed her college choice, which was Princeton.

“I really enjoyed my visit there. I could see myself there on campus, even knowing that it’s far from home,” Benally told On3 at the time.

The high school senior had over 25 college offers, which she narrowed down to only four: BYU, UNLV, Northwestern, and Princeton. The Tigers ultimately secured Benally's commitment.

However, while procreating over her decision during the holidays, Benally had several realizations that ultimately led her to change sides. Besides the distance, the culture of BYU also impressed the young sensation.

“I really like BYU and their culture, the fact that they’re faith-based,” Benally said.

“I really connected to the coaching staff, and I would say that they did recruit me the hardest, and I just enjoyed their trips that they’ve taken to New Mexico to see me,” she chimed in.

How has Sydney Benally been performing so far?

Sydney Benally was named the 2023-24 Gatorade New Mexico Girls Basketball Player of the Year. She earned this honor for her outstanding performance on the court, her academic achievements, and her community service.

She led her team to a 25-3 record and the quarterfinals of the 5A state tournament. She averaged 20.8 points, 6.4 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 3.4 steals per game. Benally also demonstrated efficiency, shooting 54.2% from inside the arc and 42% from three-point range.

In the ongoing season, Sydney Benally participated in two games, averaging 19 points per game. In her recent matchup against Atrisco Heritage Academy on December 4, Benally posted 13 points, helping her team to an easy 81-14 victory. Instead of the Ivy League, Benally will play for the Big 12 now. Given her impressive track record, it's safe to assume that BYU head coach Amber Whiting must be delighted to see Sydney Benally on her roster.