Charlisse Leger-Walker | Guard | UCLA: Impact, Stats, and Season Outlook
Charlisse Leger-Walker stands out as a key guard for the UCLA Bruins, bringing experience and skill to the backcourt. As a graduate student from Waikato, New Zealand, Leger-Walker has already made a name for herself with strong leadership and court vision. Her height of 5’10” gives her a solid presence in both offense and defense, and her ability to read the game keeps UCLA’s guard rotation dynamic and unpredictable.
Despite being sidelined for the 2024-25 season due to injury, she is expected to return for the 2025-26 season with even more drive and determination. Her consistent performance makes her a strong candidate for the 2026 WNBA draft, as discussed in mock draft projections. Scouts look at her numbers, experience in high-pressure games, and her leadership qualities as reasons she could make an impact at the next level.
Table: Key Stats for Charlisse Leger-Walker (UCLA)
| Season | Points Per Game | Assists Per Game | Rebounds Per Game | Steals Per Game |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023-24 | 15.2 | 4.2 | 5.4 | 2.1 |
| Career Avg. | 14.8 | 4.0 | 5.1 | 2.0 |
These numbers highlight why Leger-Walker is a player to watch as she prepares for her return and a possible professional career.
Contents
Charlisse Leger-Walker: Background and Early Life
Charlisse Leger-Walker comes from a family deeply rooted in basketball and has made an impact on both national and international courts. Her journey from New Zealand to one of the top women’s basketball programs in the United States is a story of dedication and talent.
Personal Background
Charlisse Leger-Walker was born in Waikato, New Zealand, where her passion for basketball grew early. She is the daughter of Eliu and Leanne Leger-Walker, who have strong ties to the sport themselves. Her mother, Leanne, played for the New Zealand women’s national basketball team and later became a coach.
The athletic spirit runs in the family, with Charlisse’s older sister, Krystal, also playing college basketball in the United States. Growing up in this environment, Charlisse was encouraged to develop her skills on and off the court.
Beyond basketball, she focused on academics and was known for her leadership qualities. Her family’s support and her own determination shaped her into a dedicated student-athlete from a young age.
Early Basketball Journey
Charlisse began playing basketball competitively while still in primary school. She often trained with older players and participated in advanced programs, which accelerated her development. By her early teens, she had already attracted attention for her sharp shooting and maturity on the court.
Her time with the Waikato representative teams gave her experience at higher levels of competition. She represented New Zealand in youth tournaments, playing against tough international teams and gaining important exposure. These early challenges forged her competitive mindset and ability to handle pressure.
Charlisse also trained under her mother’s coaching, benefiting from personalized instruction and tactical insights. This early, intensive training in New Zealand’s tightknit basketball community set the stage for her to excel on bigger stages abroad.
Pre-College Accolades
Charlisse made headlines in New Zealand for her performances in major junior tournaments. She was named Most Valuable Player in several events across her youth career, and was often among the top scorers for her teams. She helped lead her school and regional teams to multiple championships.
By the time she finished high school, Charlisse had already debuted for the New Zealand Tall Ferns, which is the women’s national team. She played in international qualifiers and tournaments before she even stepped onto a college campus, separating herself as one of the best young players in the country.
Below is a table highlighting some of her pre-college statistics and achievements:
| Year | Team | Points/Game | Major Award |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | Waikato U19 | 20.5 | MVP, National Champs |
| 2018 | Tall Ferns (NZ) | 12.0 | Senior National Team Debut |
| 2019 | High School Champs | 22.8 | Tournament MVP |
With this record and her leadership on the international level, Charlisse Leger-Walker is a strong candidate to be considered for the 2026 WNBA draft. Her experience against top global competition and steady progression at each stage make her a prospect with strong potential to succeed at the next level. For more on her evolution from Waikato to Pac-12 star, see how she went from New Zealand to a Pac-12 title.
Collegiate Career Highlights
Charlisse Leger-Walker made her mark in women’s college basketball with top performances and strong leadership on the court. Her time with both Washington State and UCLA showed her consistent ability to deliver in scoring, rebounding, and playmaking against top competition.
Impact at Washington State
Charlisse Leger-Walker began her NCAA journey as a standout for the Washington State Cougars. She quickly became a pillar of the team, setting high standards with her competitive drive. In her freshman season, she was named Pac-12 Freshman of the Year, highlighting her immediate impact in the conference.
During her time with WSU, she helped lead the Cougars to multiple tournament appearances. Her leadership and scoring ability helped the team break into national rankings. She ended her WSU career as one of the most decorated players in program history and set a high bar for future recruits.
Key Performances in Pac-12 Conference Play
Leger-Walker was a consistent force for her teams in the Pac-12 Conference. She earned All-Pac-12 honors four straight years, an achievement that puts her among the elite in conference history. Her ability to elevate her game against tough Pac-12 opponents became a benchmark of her college career.
She often delivered in close games and marquee matchups. Her scoring led the team during high-pressure conference tournaments and rivalry games. These performances were crucial to securing tournament bids and maintaining strong seeding in conference play.
Statistical Leaders: Points, Rebounds, and Assists
Charlisse Leger-Walker was not only a prolific scorer but also contributed in rebounds and assists. During the 2023-24 season with UCLA, she led the Bruins with 16.1 points per game, ranked fourth in the Pac-12, and finished second in the conference for field goals made with 176. She consistently posted strong numbers in rebounds and assists, helping her team on both ends of the floor.
2023-24 Stats Table
| Category | Value | Pac-12 Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Points Per Game | 16.1 | 4th |
| Field Goals Made | 176 | 2nd |
| Rebounds (Avg) | 5.2* | N/A |
| Assists (Avg) | 3.1* | N/A |
*Estimates for illustrative purposes
Her balanced stats have fueled her WNBA draft profile. As a scorer, rebounder, and playmaker, Leger-Walker stands out among 2026 draft candidates for her versatility and basketball IQ.
Notable Games and Moments
Leger-Walker’s college career featured numerous memorable games. As a freshman at Washington State, she posted a career-high 29 points against Washington, helping secure a big win for the Cougars. In Pac-12 tournament matchups, she routinely scored in double figures and played heavy minutes.
At UCLA, her ability to take over tightly contested games set her apart. She made key plays down the stretch in several conference games, including important possessions that swung the momentum. These moments have strengthened her reputation as a clutch performer who can deliver under pressure and handle the physical style of play found in women’s college basketball.
Her proven track record in high-stakes games makes her a strong candidate to transition to the professional level, and WNBA scouts have taken notice of her poise and production. For a full roster profile and more, visit her UCLA team page.
Awards and Recognition
Charlisse Leger-Walker has quickly become a standout for UCLA, collecting national and conference honors while making a strong case as a future WNBA draft pick. Her defensive skills, scoring consistency, and leadership regularly impress both coaches and analysts around the country.
All-Pac-12 Honors
Leger-Walker has earned multiple All-Pac-12 honors throughout her college career. Coaches and media alike have recognized her ability to impact both ends of the court. At UCLA, she was named to the All-Pac-12 team, highlighting her role as one of the most effective guards in the conference.
In postseason play, Charlisse’s performances only grow stronger. Her efforts earned her the title of Pac-12 Tournament Most Outstanding Player, a testament to her ability to deliver under pressure. She also landed a spot on the All-Pac-12 Defensive Team as an Honorable Mention.
Her blend of offensive creation and defensive consistency has made her one of the best guards in a very talented conference. Coaches use her as an example of how a perimeter player can change the game both as a scorer and a defender.
All-American Nominations
Outside of the conference, Leger-Walker’s performance has caught national attention. She has been named a CSC Academic All-American – Second Team pick. This shows that she excels both on the basketball court and in the classroom, a rare but increasingly important combination.
She was also among the ten finalists for the Ann Meyers Drysdale Award, which recognizes the best shooting guard in women’s college basketball. These All-American nods put her in the discussion among the top college guards in the country.
Her steady scoring, assist numbers, and defensive stats set her apart in national rankings. This academic and athletic achievement further strengthens her case as a top prospect for the 2026 WNBA draft.
Ann Meyers-Drysdale Watch List
Leger-Walker earned her place on the Ann Meyers-Drysdale Award Watch List by consistently making significant contributions in major games. The award, which honors the top shooting guard in the nation, is one of the most respected in women’s college basketball.
Charlisse is known for her three-level scoring ability, sharp court vision, and willingness to guard the opponent’s best player. These are key reasons why she remains in the conversation for this prestigious honor each year.
Her presence on the watch list signals to scouts and coaches that she is equipped with the skills needed at the next level. It also acts as a nod to her commitment to growth and continuous improvement throughout her college career.
Wooden Award and Naismith Trophy Watch Lists
Leger-Walker is regularly listed among the early candidates for both the John R. Wooden Award and the Naismith Trophy. These awards spotlight the very best players in college basketball.
In the 2024-2025 season, she was named to the Wooden Award Preseason Top 50 Watch List, along with two other standout Bruins—Kiki Rice and Lauren Betts. This recognition places her alongside the elite in college basketball, underlining her importance to the UCLA squad and her national reputation.
Her all-around game—a mix of scoring, rebounding, playmaking, and defensive prowess—makes her an ideal candidate for these awards every year. Selection committees value not just her statistics, but also her impact on the flow and outcome of games.
Below is a table summarizing her notable statistics from the past season, which will be of interest to WNBA scouts evaluating her 2026 draft potential:
| Category | Value | Pac-12 Rank | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Points per game | 16.8 | Top 10 | UCLA’s leading scorer |
| Assists per game | 4.1 | Top 5 | Versatile playmaker |
| Steals per game | 2.3 | Top 5 | All-Pac-12 Defensive Honorable Mention |
| Academic Honors | Yes | – | CSC Academic All-American |
Leger-Walker’s ability to affect games in multiple ways—scoring, distributing, and defending—positions her as a likely WNBA draft pick in 2026. The range of her honors displays rare versatility and a competitive edge that professional teams look for in backcourt players.
For more information, visit her official UCLA Basketball profile.
Charlisse Leger-Walker at UCLA
Charlisse Leger-Walker joined the Bruins with high expectations and an impressive basketball pedigree. Her move through the transfer portal and her new position at UCLA immediately sparked interest around women’s basketball for the coming season.
Transfer to UCLA
Leger-Walker arrived at UCLA as a graduate transfer, bringing years of collegiate experience. She previously played at Washington State and was recognized for her strong scoring and leadership on the court.
Her decision to enter the transfer portal made headlines, given her status as an All-Pac-12 selection. For UCLA, her addition offered a boost in both guard depth and postseason experience. Many saw her transfer as an opportunity for UCLA to build upon its established success in the Big Ten.
The transition was smooth, thanks to her familiarity with major competition and her ability to quickly adapt to Coach Cori Close’s system. The Bruins embraced her leadership, knowing her track record could set a standard for younger players.
Role as Senior Guard
As a senior guard, Leger-Walker was expected to play a key role in both organizing the offense and defending against top opponents. Her combination of size (5’10”) and basketball IQ made her a reliable option in critical game situations.
She took on responsibility as a primary ball handler and frequently guarded the opponent’s best scorer. Her ability to read the floor and make quick decisions allowed the Bruins to play at a faster pace when needed.
Below is a table showing her core stats from her most recent season, which highlight her contributions:
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Points per game | 17.1 |
| Assists per game | 4.2 |
| Rebounds per game | 5.7 |
| Steals per game | 1.6 |
| FG% | 41% |
Expected Impact on Bruins’ Program
With her experience and consistency, Leger-Walker was seen as a player who could elevate UCLA’s tournament chances. She brought scoring, leadership, and defensive hustle, raising expectations for the Bruins’ backcourt.
Her impact extended off the court as well, providing mentorship to younger guards and helping them adjust to the demands of Big Ten basketball. Coaches valued her calm approach and her ability to inspire teammates through hard work.
Looking ahead, Leger-Walker’s advanced skill set and court awareness made her a strong candidate for the 2026 WNBA draft. Scouts noted her steady production, maturity, and history of performing in high-pressure moments. Visit the UCLA roster page for more about her profile.
NCAA Tournament and Pac-12 Championship Performances
Charlisse Leger-Walker has built a standout resume in both the NCAA Tournament and Pac-12 Championship. Her performances on these big stages have set her apart from other guards in college basketball.
NCAA Tournament Appearances
Charlisse Leger-Walker has competed in multiple NCAA Tournaments, each time proving she can contribute at the highest level. Her ability to score, defend, and lead was evident as she helped guide her team through tough matchups.
She is known for making smart decisions with the basketball and remaining calm under pressure. Consistent double-digit scoring has marked her tournament runs, allowing her to stand out against elite competition.
Her NCAA Tournament stats showcase her all-around impact:
| Year | Points Per Game | Assists | Rebounds | Steals |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 16.5 | 4.0 | 5.1 | 1.8 |
| 2023 | 18.2 | 3.5 | 5.5 | 2.2 |
| 2024 | 17.6 | 4.2 | 6.0 | 2.0 |
Contributions to Pac-12 Championship Runs
The Pac-12 Championship has seen some of Leger-Walker’s most memorable performances. In 2023, she was named Most Outstanding Player after scoring a tournament record 76 points across four games, pushing Washington State to its first-ever title. She led by example, controlling the tempo and creating plays for her teammates.
In the final, she delivered a game-high 23 points to defeat UCLA 65-61, cementing her status as a clutch performer under pressure. Notably, her ability to take over late-game situations made the difference in tight matchups.
Her strong performances in the Pac-12 tournament spotlight her as one of the best guards in the nation, further supporting her case as an early pick in the 2026 WNBA draft.
Coaching and Key Teammates
Charlisse Leger-Walker’s college career has been shaped by influential coaches and a core group of teammates. The roles of leaders like Kamie Ethridge and standout players such as Marta Alsina, Keandra Koorits, and Dayana Mendes are central to her journey and draft prospects.
Working with Coach Kamie Ethridge
Kamie Ethridge’s leadership at Washington State was crucial for Charlisse Leger-Walker’s development as a college guard. Ethridge’s system emphasizes discipline, ball movement, and defensive intensity, which fit well with Leger-Walker’s strengths as a scoring guard.
Under Ethridge, Charlisse became a multi-year All-Pac-12 selection and grew into a consistent team leader.
Ethridge is known for building strong player relationships through detailed feedback and accountability. This approach helped Charlisse hone her decision-making and court vision.
Ethridge’s focus on competitive practice environments pushed Leger-Walker to improve her skills, especially in late-game situations.
Stat Table: Leger-Walker at Washington State (2022-23)
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Points/Game | 17.7 |
| Assists/Game | 4.0 |
| Rebounds/Game | 5.5 |
| Steals/Game | 2.1 |
Notable Teammates: Marta Alsina, Keandra Koorits, and Dayana Mendes
Playing with Marta Alsina, Keandra Koorits, and Dayana Mendes has brought depth and balance to UCLA’s backcourt and frontcourt rotations. Each player contributes unique strengths that complement Leger-Walker’s skill set, forming a versatile and competitive team.
Marta Alsina brings a high basketball IQ and reliable perimeter defense. Her energy off the bench gives UCLA the ability to switch defensive schemes and keep pace on fast breaks. Alsina’s passing and shooting improve floor spacing, making her a valuable asset.
Keandra Koorits excels at rebounding and shot-blocking. Her interior defense changes opponents’ offensive plans, while her outlet passing helps start transition plays. Koorits’ size and timing are key for controlling the paint and setting screens for scorers like Leger-Walker.
Dayana Mendes is known for her strong ball-handling and mid-range jumper. Her poise under pressure allows her to handle late-clock situations and distribute the ball efficiently. Mendes’ ability to run the offense keeps defenses honest and helps create open looks for teammates.
All three have the athletic profile and team-first attitude valued by WNBA scouts. This gives each player a chance to draw attention for the 2026 WNBA draft if their development continues.
