For the 2025 recruiting class, South Carolina women’s basketball has received commitments from five-star wing Ayla McDowell, who is ranked No. 22 overall, and five-star guard Agot Makeer, ranked No. 4 overall.

South Carolina Women’s Basketball Bolsters 2025 Class with Elite Signings

The South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball program is making waves in the recruiting world as they add two highly coveted prospects to their 2025 class. Five-star wing Ayla McDowell, ranked No. 22 overall, and five-star guard Agot Makeer, ranked No. 4 overall, have both officially committed to South Carolina, signaling the program’s intent to maintain its standing as a powerhouse in collegiate basketball.

McDowell, a versatile 6-foot-2 wing player from Atlanta, Georgia, has garnered attention for her impressive skill set. Known for her scoring ability and strong defensive instincts, she has been a standout player at her high school and on the AAU circuit. Her commitment adds not only talent but also depth to a roster that has already seen significant success in recent years under head coach Dawn Staley.

Staley and her coaching staff have consistently proven adept at identifying and securing top-tier talent, and the commitment of McDowell further solidifies their prowess in recruiting. The coaching staff praised her work ethic, versatility, and ability to compete at a high level. “Ayla has all the tools to be a game-changer,” Staley said. “Her ability to shoot from the perimeter and defend multiple positions makes her an ideal fit for our style of play. We’re excited to have her join our program.”

Meanwhile, Agot Makeer brings her own impressive accolades to South Carolina. Hailing from Sudan and currently playing high school basketball in the United States, the 6-foot guard has emerged as one of the top players in the country. Her ranking as the No. 4 player nationally speaks to her remarkable skills, which include exceptional ball handling, court vision, and a scoring touch that can stretch defenses.

Makeer’s commitment comes after a whirlwind recruitment, with numerous programs vying for her talents. Notably, she has been heavily praised for her leadership qualities and ability to make those around her better. Staley remarked, “Agot is not only an incredible player but also a natural leader. She has a charisma on and off the court that will elevate our team culture.”

Together, these two commitments represent a significant step forward for a South Carolina program that has become synonymous with success. The Gamecocks won the NCAA Championship in 2017 and reached the Final Four multiple times in recent years, solidifying their status as a national contender. As they continue to build a powerhouse, the addition of McDowell and Makeer fits perfectly into their long-term vision.

Both players have made significant impacts on their respective high school teams and have been instrumental in their success. McDowell is known for her scoring prowess, having averaged over 20 points per game last season, while also contributing playmaking and defensive skills. Makeer, often recognized for her high basketball IQ, has been a playmaker, leading her team in assists while also being a scoring threat.

These commitments have excited not only the coaching staff and players but also the passionate fan base that supports South Carolina women’s basketball. Fans have taken to social media, expressing their enthusiasm about the future of the program and the talent that will soon don the Gamecock uniform.

With both McDowell and Makeer joining the fold, South Carolina looks prepared to maintain its competitive edge in both the SEC and nationwide. As they head into the upcoming seasons, expectations will undoubtedly rise as fans anticipate what these elite prospects will bring to the court.

Looking ahead, South Carolina’s coaching staff will continue to work on enhancing their roster, aiming to support the new signees as they transition to collegiate basketball. With a strong foundation and burgeoning talent being assembled, the Gamecocks are well-positioned to contend for championships in the near future.

The commitments from McDowell and Makeer signify a commitment to excellence that South Carolina has pursued under Staley’s guidance. As the landscape of women’s college basketball continues to evolve, the Gamecocks are positioning themselves for continued success in the years to come, driven by top-tier athletes ready to make their mark on the national stage. With these two ballers now on board, the sky’s the limit for South Carolina women’s basketball.