South Carolina Gamecocks Recruiting Target Sets Decision Date
1. South Carolina’s Football Recruiting Landscape
South Carolina’s football program has seen a resurgence under head coach Shane Beamer, who has cultivated a competitive environment both on and off the field. The Gamecocks have consistently made significant strides in recruiting, with a particular emphasis on bolstering their depth and talent across several positions.
Shed Sarratt – A Key Offensive Line Target
One of the most pivotal pieces in the Gamecocks’ recruiting efforts is the four-star offensive lineman, Shed Sarratt, from Gaffney, SC. Sarratt is highly sought after by several major programs, but South Carolina’s proximity to his home and the team’s growing offensive line needs give them an advantage. Sarratt’s decision to commit on June 14 is a crucial moment in the Gamecocks’ 2025 recruiting cycle.
The Gamecocks have had their fair share of struggles on the offensive line, making the addition of high-caliber players like Sarratt vital to their success moving forward. A commitment from Sarratt would not only strengthen the line but could also act as a beacon to other top recruits, indicating South Carolina’s resurgence in the SEC.
Kendall Daniels Jr. – A Potential Defensive Star
Another critical recruit for the Gamecocks is Kendall Daniels Jr., a highly rated safety from Virginia Beach. As a top-150 recruit and one of the best defensive backs in the 2025 class, Daniels would bring significant value to South Carolina’s secondary. His decision to announce his commitment soon adds excitement to the Gamecocks’ recruitment drive, with many analysts predicting South Carolina as a likely destination.
Daniels’ versatility on the field—capable of playing both cornerback and safety—makes him an appealing prospect for a defense looking to make an immediate impact. His commitment would not only address immediate defensive needs but also solidify the Gamecocks’ future as a defensive powerhouse in the SEC.
Jared Smith – A Defensive Line Playmaker
In addition to Sarratt and Daniels, four-star EDGE rusher Jared Smith from Hoover, Alabama, is another high-priority target. Smith’s ability to pressure the quarterback and disrupt offensive schemes makes him an ideal fit for South Carolina’s defense. A strong showing in his official visit could push the Gamecocks to the forefront of his decision-making.
Smith’s recruitment is fierce, with other SEC schools, such as Georgia and Florida State, competing heavily for his services. If South Carolina can secure Smith’s commitment, they will have added another game-changing player to their defensive line.
Donovan Murph – Wide Receiver of the Future
A major boost for South Carolina’s offense came with the commitment of four-star wide receiver Donovan Murph. Murph’s ability to reclassify into the 2025 class shows his eagerness to join the Gamecocks sooner than expected. With 29 touchdowns in high school, Murph’s skill set and potential as a game-breaking receiver will give South Carolina a dynamic playmaker for years to come.
Murph’s commitment was a huge win for South Carolina, as the Gamecocks fended off major competition from programs like Clemson and Colorado. His addition gives South Carolina a powerful weapon in the receiving game, something they’ve needed to compete with other high-powered offenses in the SEC.
2. Women’s Basketball: Agot Makeer and Ayla McDowell
On the women’s basketball front, South Carolina has made waves with its recruiting efforts. Head coach Dawn Staley has been a major force in building one of the best women’s basketball programs in the country, and she continues to add elite talent to her roster.
Agot Makeer – The Future of South Carolina Basketball
The commitment of five-star forward Agot Makeer was a huge win for South Carolina women’s basketball. Ranked as the No. 4 recruit in the Class of 2025, Makeer’s skill set fits perfectly into the Gamecocks’ system. Her size, athleticism, and ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor will make her an immediate contributor once she arrives in Columbia.
Makeer’s decision to choose South Carolina over UConn is notable, as UConn has long been the gold standard in women’s college basketball recruiting. For South Carolina to land Makeer solidifies its status as a top-tier program and a destination for elite talent. With the combination of Makeer and Ayla McDowell (another top-ranked 2025 recruit), the Gamecocks are primed for sustained success in women’s college basketball.
Ayla McDowell – Adding Another Top Recruit
McDowell, ranked No. 22 in the 2025 class, is a versatile guard who brings high basketball IQ and leadership to the court. Her addition to South Carolina’s roster ensures that the Gamecocks will continue to have depth and talent at the guard position, complementing their already elite forwards. The duo of McDowell and Makeer is expected to give South Carolina an edge in both national recruiting and future championships.
3. Broader Recruiting Strategy and Team Development
South Carolina’s recruiting success in recent years speaks to a larger strategic vision for both football and women’s basketball. The football program under Shane Beamer has emphasized securing commitments from in-state players like Sarratt, as well as building relationships with out-of-state recruits in areas where the Gamecocks can build pipelines. By maintaining a balanced approach to recruiting—focusing on both skilled position players and linemen—the Gamecocks are positioning themselves for long-term success.
Similarly, in women’s basketball, the Gamecocks are capitalizing on the national spotlight they’ve earned under Dawn Staley’s leadership. The combination of national success, an incredible coaching staff, and facilities has made South Carolina a top destination for elite talent, especially after recent national championships.
The Future of South Carolina Athletics
The future of South Carolina athletics, especially in football and women’s basketball, looks bright as the Gamecocks secure commitments from top-tier prospects. With each of these recruits—Sarratt, Daniels, Smith, Murph, Makeer, and McDowell—South Carolina continues to elevate its position in the competitive landscapes of both sports. For Gamecocks fans, these recruitment wins represent a promise of continued excellence and championship contention in the years to come.
As decision dates for these players approach, the excitement around South Carolina recruiting will only intensify. Whether it’s building a dominant defense, bolstering an explosive offense, or solidifying an already outstanding women’s basketball team, the Gamecocks are on the cusp of something special. For now, Gamecock Nation will eagerly await these recruits’ final decisions, hoping that the momentum continues to build.