GRAND FORKS, N.D. -- University of North Dakota head women's basketball coach Mallory Bernhard announced on Tuesday the addition of guard Jayla Owen to the program for her final three years of eligibility beginning in the 2023-24 season. 

Owen comes to UND following a standout freshman campaign at Western Nebraska Community College, where she earned All-America honors. The Dorval, Québec, native appeared in all 29 games for the Cougars last season, starting 27 of those contests and pacing the squad with 12.3 points per game. Owen was also one of the top distributors on the team, sitting second with 4.1 assists per game and a 1.3 assist/turnover ratio. The guard reached double figures in 19 games and crossed the 20-point plateau a trio of times, including a season-best 27 points against Otero College on Jan. 27. 

Overall, Owen helped the Cougars to a 21-9 overall record and hosted the Region IX postseason tournament before falling just short of a berth in the national tournament. 

What They Are Saying About Jayla Owen: 
Head Coach Mallory Bernhard
"We are incredibly excited about the addition of Jayla to our program. She is someone we have tracked for some time now and the timing was right for her to join the Fighting Hawks family. She is a tireless worker and has the drive to continually improve. Jayla had a fabulous season at Western Nebraska and we look forward to her putting her stamp on things here at UND."

Western Nebraska College Head Coach Isaac Lu
"I am extremely excited to see Jayla Owen compete for the University of North Dakota. Jayla's experience, toughness, and versatility have been tremendous for our team this year and will be valuable as she continues her career at the next level. Her work ethic on and off the court speaks volumes about the way she approaches her goals and I am looking forward to seeing Jayla continue to grow and develop these next three years."

For more information on North Dakota women's basketball, follow on social media @UNDwbasketball or visit FightingHawks.com.