Wright Finds Her Home at Iowa
The Iowa coaching staff quickly convinced Chit-Chat Wright to join the Hawkeyes. With her former assistant coach, LaSondra Barrett, already part of the Iowa team, Wright instantly felt that Iowa City was where she belonged.
Instant Connection During Visit
“During my official visit, it felt like home. They say, ‘when you know, you know,’ and I knew that I didn’t want to visit any other schools. This is where I wanted to be,” Wright shared with reporters after practice on Tuesday. “Iowa is well known. This is where you go to get recognized, play at a high level, and team up with excellent players.”
Strong Ties to Coaching Staff
Wright developed a close relationship with Barrett, who was instrumental in recruiting her to Georgia Tech, where Wright spent her freshman year. After Barrett left for Iowa and the retirement of Nell Fortner at Georgia Tech, Wright made the decision to transfer.
Barrett’s Perspective on Wright
Barrett remarked, “I’ve known Chit-Chat since she was in ninth grade. She plays beyond her size and is the hardest worker I’ve ever coached.” Wright agreed, saying Barrett’s arrival made her envision a good fit within the program. “The legacy of Iowa and the supportive coaches and teammates are significant factors in my decision,” she added.
Freshman Experience and Transition
During her freshman year at Georgia Tech, Wright played in 33 games, starting in 12. She averaged 7.2 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game. This season, she anticipates more opportunities within Iowa’s offense. Barrett previously noted that Wright’s tenacity makes her appealing to teams across the nation.
A Unique Style of Play
Describing her own game, Wright said, “I would say I’m a quiet assassin.” She emphasized her ability to score and facilitate, which aligns with her preference for a fast-paced game. Having logged significant floor time last season, she is eager to leverage her experience to guide incoming freshmen.
Embracing the Nickname and Team Role
Wright’s nickname, Chit-Chat, has an interesting origin linked to her quiet demeanor during her AAU days. “It’s ironic that I received that name,” she admitted, now fully embracing it. As the new season approaches, Wright is focused on defining her role on the team and contributing to their success. “At this point, I’m just figuring out what the team needs from me,” she stated.
