SOUTH CAROLINA GAMECOCKS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL RELOADS WITH NATION’S NO. 1 RECRUITING CLASS UNDER DAWN STALEY…..SEE MORE…..
The dynasty in Columbia shows no signs of slowing down. Just weeks after capturing another deep NCAA Tournament run, the South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball team, led by the legendary Dawn Staley, has secured the No. 1 recruiting class in the nation for 2025—a powerful statement that the program remains the gold standard in women’s college basketball.
The recruiting class, officially announced this week, features four five-star players, including the nation’s top-ranked prospect and two players ranked in the top five nationally. Combined with returning talent from the 2024 Final Four squad, the Gamecocks are positioned to extend their dominance well into the future.
“This class has championship DNA,” Staley said at the official signing day press conference. “They’re not just talented. They’re competitors, they’re leaders, and they understand what it means to wear the Garnet and Black.”
Meet the Future Stars of South Carolina
Headlining the class is Amiyah Collins, a 6-foot-2 forward out of Chicago who has been widely regarded as the top high school player in the nation. Known for her versatility, Collins has drawn comparisons to former Gamecock great A’ja Wilson for her ability to score inside and out, rebound with tenacity, and lead on both ends of the floor.
“I wanted to go somewhere where I’d be pushed to be the best version of myself,” Collins said. “Coach Staley is a legend, and South Carolina is where champions are made. I’m ready to get to work.”
Joining Collins is Jordyn Mitchell, a lightning-quick point guard from Atlanta ranked No. 3 nationally. With elite handles, court vision, and a defensive motor that fits perfectly into Staley’s high-pressure scheme, Mitchell is expected to be a Day 1 contributor.
Rounding out the top-tier signings are Kayla White, a physical 6-foot-4 post player from Texas, and Tiana Rivers, a sharpshooting wing from California who shot over 45% from three-point range during her senior season.
All four are McDonald’s All-Americans and have experience playing on the U.S. national youth teams—another sign of the elite caliber of this incoming group.
A Culture Built to Win
Since arriving at South Carolina in 2008, Dawn Staley has built the Gamecocks into a powerhouse known not only for wins but for developing women of character and empowering them beyond basketball. With two national championships (2017 and 2022), multiple Final Four appearances, and a wave of former players now starring in the WNBA, the program is the standard for sustained excellence.
This latest recruiting coup is a testament to the culture Staley has created—one where elite players want to be challenged, want to grow, and want to win on the biggest stage.
“Our coaching staff is relentless,” said assistant coach Lisa Boyer. “We don’t just recruit talent—we recruit heart, discipline, and toughness. These young women are Gamecocks because they believe in the grind and the greatness that comes with it.”
Looking Ahead to 2025 and Beyond
While much of the current roster remains intact, including returning All-American Raven Johnson and rising star Ashlyn Watkins, the new class adds depth, energy, and future star power that will keep the Gamecocks in the national spotlight.
Staley has emphasized balance in building her teams—defensive grit, offensive efficiency, and a team-first mentality—and this class fits that mold perfectly. With size, speed, and leadership across all five positions, South Carolina is poised to remain at or near the top of the SEC and national rankings for years to come.
“These young women understand what’s expected here,” Staley said. “We don’t promise playing time, but we promise development. We promise a shot at greatness. And they’re ready to take that shot.”
A Message to the Nation
Landing the No. 1 recruiting class is more than a bragging right—it’s a message. South Carolina is not content with past success. They are evolving, building, and preparing for the next chapter in their storied rise.
For fans in Columbia and beyond, the excitement is palpable.
“I’ve been watching Gamecock basketball for over a decade, and every year, it just gets better,” said longtime season ticket holder Barbara Gibson. “This class is special. Dawn’s building something that can’t be stopped.”
With another elite recruiting class in hand and a seasoned roster ready to compete, the South Carolina Gamecocks are setting their sights on more banners, more wins, and more history. And if this class is any indication, the rest of the college basketball world better take notice.
