LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Center Haya Abdel Aal, who is the sister of Bellarmine University rising sophomore Hana Abdel Aal, has signed with the Knights women's basketball team.

While not twins, the pair could provide a Twin Towers effect for Bellarmine for years to come. Haya is 6-foot-3 and will be a true freshman while Hana is a 6-2 center whose promising freshman campaign — which included an ASUN Freshman of the Week accolade — was cut short due to a season-ending injury after nine games.

A native of Alexandria, Egypt, Haya in 2024 played with the Egyptian national team in the FIBA U18 women's African Championship and participated in the FIBA women's Basketball League Africa.

"Haya brings valuable professional experience from playing up with her club team in Egypt," Bellarmine head coach Monique Reid said. "She's a talented scorer, light on her feet and an excellent shot blocker. We're thrilled to add another Egyptian player to our program, and I'm sure Hana is especially excited to share the court with her sister. Haya's presence will elevate our team on both ends of the floor."

Haya earned gold medals in U14, U16 and U18 Women's Alexandria League, U18 Women's Basketball Egyptian league and the Women's Egyptian Basketball Joint League. She was recognized as MVP in both U16 and U18 Women's Alexandria league as well as in the Joint League.

"I chose Bellarmine University because of its competitiveness in D1 athletics," Haya said. "As a basketball player, it was as important for me to play with a school that competes at a high level to help me grow as an athlete. Another thing that stood out to me is its reputation and commitment to developing well-rounded student-athletes, which aligned perfectly with my personal goals."

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