Nation no .1 recruit who dawn Staley announced as selected 2026 committed prayers to south Carolina women’s basketball over Nebraska, BYU powerhouse…
South Carolina women’s basketball head coach Dawn Staley has announced the highly anticipated commitment of Ashlon Jackson, the nation’s number one recruit in the class of 2026. Jackson, a dynamic guard known for her exceptional scoring ability, court vision, and defensive prowess, chose the Gamecocks over a competitive field that included prominent programs such as Nebraska and BYU. This recruitment marks a significant milestone for South Carolina, further solidifying their position as a powerhouse in women’s college basketball.
Jackson’s decision to commit to South Carolina underscores the program’s continued dominance and ability to attract top-tier talent from across the country. The 6-foot guard has garnered national attention through her impressive performances at the high school level, where she has consistently showcased her versatility and leadership qualities. Her skill set aligns perfectly with Coach Staley’s fast-paced, aggressive style of play, promising an exciting future for the program.
Throughout her recruitment process, Jackson expressed admiration for the culture and success of South Carolina’s team, citing Coach Staley’s leadership and the program’s winning tradition as key factors in her decision. She also highlighted the strong academic environment and the supportive community at South Carolina as important considerations.
Jackson’s commitment adds to South Carolina’s already formidable roster, which regularly competes at the highest levels of NCAA women’s basketball. Her arrival is expected to bolster the team’s depth and offensive firepower, helping to maintain their status as national contenders. As one of the most highly anticipated prospects of the 2026 class, Jackson’s development is closely watched by college basketball enthusiasts nationwide.
Nebraska and BYU, both of which made strong pushes for Jackson, expressed their respect for her decision and congratulated her on her choice. Nebraska’s coaching staff emphasized their continued commitment to recruiting top talent and building a competitive program. BYU, known for developing talented players and fostering a strong team culture, also congratulated Jackson and looked forward to following her career.
Coach Dawn Staley praised Jackson’s decision, stating, “Ashlon is an incredible talent who embodies the qualities we value — competitive spirit, leadership, and a desire to excel. We’re excited to welcome her to the South Carolina family and look forward to watching her grow as a player and person.”
Jackson’s commitment is a testament to South Carolina’s reputation as a destination for elite female basketball players. Her addition to the 2026 class is expected to have a lasting impact on the program’s trajectory and success in the coming years. As she prepares to transition from high school to college basketball, all eyes will be on Jackson to see how she continues to develop and contribute to the storied legacy of the South Carolina women’s basketball team.
