WBB: Bearcats add Illinois transfer forward Naomi Benson
Former Illinois forward Naomi Benson commits to Cincinnati
Katrina Merriweather and company landed their second member of the 2026 transfer cycle after Illinois transfer Naomi Benson announced her pledge to Cincinnati.
The Streetsboro, Ohio native was a former top 100 recruit in the class of 2025 coming out of high school before signing with the Illini. Benson appeared in 21 games as a true freshman in limited action. Benson comes to Cincinnati looking for a fresh start following her freshman season and should play a big role for Cincinnati on the win position with her size and length, standing at 6'2".
Benson had an incredible high school career where she averaged a double-double throughout her high school career.
Her high school stats are below:
2024-25: 19.1 PPG, 11.4 RPG, 2.1 APG, 3.1 SPG, 2.3 BPG, 56.8 FG%
2023-24: 16.2 PPG, 11.5 RPG, 2.9 APG, 2.7 SPG, 1.0 BPG, 54.0 FG%
2022-23: 15.3 PPG, 14.4 RPG, 2.4 APG, 2.3 SPG, 1.9 BPG, 51.0 FG%
2021-22: 14.0 PPG, 12.2 RPG, 1.0 APG, 2.7 SPG, 1.7 BPG, 46.0 FG%
Bensin, now joins former Houston Couger Jade Jones as members of the 2026 transfer cycle.
Go Bearcats:
Coach Merriweather's thoughts on Benson:
"Naomi is a great addition to our squad," said Merriweather. "Her skill set and personality fit with our team and can continue to push us forward. Naomi brings the Bearcat determination we need. We’re excited to continue her development in the post and extend her game. She loves to rebound and has the ability to finish well around the rim. She reminds us of the importance of leaving an impression on someone because you never know when your paths may cross again. We look forward to having her and her family as part of The Sisterhood."