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Joens coming back

AP FILE PHOTO - Iowa State guard Ashley Joens celebrates with fans on her way off the court after a second-round win over Georgia in the women’s NCAA Tournament on March 20 at Hilton Coliseum in Ames.

AMES — Iowa State’s all-time leading scorer is going to get a chance to add on to her record total.

Iowa State senior guard/forward Ashley Joens announced Monday through her social media accounts that she will return to the women’s basketball program next year, capitalizing on the opportunity for one final season of eligibility.

Joens made the announcement three days after the Cyclones’ season ended in the Sweet 16 of the women’s NCAA Tournament. She averaged 20.3 points and 9.5 rebounds per game this winter, helping Iowa State to a school record for wins in a 28-7 campaign.

“Growing up I always dreamed of playing college basketball and, thanks to Coach (Bill) Fennelly and the rest of the coaching staff, I was able to make that dream a reality,” Joens wrote on her Instagram account. “I am blessed to call Iowa State my home away from home and to be a part of the Cyclone family!

“My teammates have been nothing short of amazing and make coming to practice every day so much fun. Cyclone Nation, you have shown me so much love and support over the past four years, and you make playing at Hilton that much more special. That’s why I’m excited to announce that I’m coming back for another year of Hilton Magic! This team is special. We have more to accomplish, and I can’t wait to play another year with all of them! Go Cyclones!”

Joens has been projected as a first-round WNBA draft pick by ESPN, where she’s been at Nos. 9 and 10. She is the only projected first-rounder on ESPN’s mock draft board who has announced she will be returning to college.

A blanket waiver by the NCAA for the 2020-21 season impacted by COVID-19 granted all collegiate athletes the option of an extra year of eligibility.

Joens brings back with her 2,369 career points, 1,081 rebounds and 126 games started.

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