Fresno State names Clovis West guard to starting lineup for season opener

Fresno State will name Ryleigh Schoonover to its starting lineup for the 2026-27 season opener. The guard will make her college debut at the Save Mart Center in less than two weeks against UC Merced.

Schoonover comes from a program defined by sustained dominance. Clovis West has won 14 consecutive Central Section championships. This streak has made winning titles a baseline expectation for the Golden Eagles rather than an occasional achievement.

Her former high school coach, Craig Campbell, noted that the team aims to be competitive every year. He stated that while they will not win every championship, they intend to remain in the hunt annually.

Schoonover chose to stay in the Central Valley for her college career. She said wearing the valley V on her jersey holds special meaning that outsiders may not fully grasp. She credited Campbell for preparing her for the intensity of the college game.

Fresno State coach Ryan McCarthy identified Schoonover as the top player in the area for her class of 2026. He said she proved his assessment immediately upon joining the team. McCarthy noted that her experience in a winning environment sets a high standard for her performance on the court.

The Bulldogs are competing in the Pac-12 Conference as they aim for a conference title. Schoonover is part of a freshman class that will contribute to that roster. Her background in a championship program aligns with the expectations McCarthy sets for his players.

Campbell believes Schoonover has not yet reached her full potential. He said the coaching staff is excited about the range of abilities she can develop for the team in the coming seasons.