The University of South Carolina’s men’s basketball program has made waves by securing the commitment of a talented international player, Mike Sharavjamts. The 6’9″ guard from Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, has chosen to continue his basketball career with the Gamecocks, joining the team for the 2025–26 season. This move marks a pivotal moment for South Carolina basketball, as they not only gain an accomplished player but also further diversify their roster by bringing in an athlete with unique international experience.
A Basketball Legacy
Mike Sharavjamts’ story is one of international basketball ambition and hard work. Born on August 27, 2002, in Phoenix, Arizona, Sharavjamts comes from a family with deep basketball roots. His father, Sharavjamts Tserenjankhar, known as “The Mongolian Shark,” was a prominent figure in the Mongolian basketball scene and made history as the first Asian player to join the Harlem Globetrotters. His grandfather, Tserenjanhar, played for the Mongolian national team, further embedding basketball into the fabric of the Sharavjamts family.
Growing up surrounded by basketball culture, Mike was exposed to the sport at a young age, and he quickly developed a passion for it. His younger brother, Munkhiin-Od Sharavjamts, also shares the family’s love for basketball, and it’s clear that the Sharavjamts family has the potential to continue making waves in the basketball world for generations to come.
High School Success and Early Development
Sharavjamts’ high school basketball journey was marked by a series of transfers, but each step of his development showcased his growing skill set. He started his high school career at Legacy Christian in Xenia, Ohio, where he averaged 10.5 points per game in the 2018–19 season. However, his talent became more widely recognized after he transferred to Prolific Prep in Napa, California, for his sophomore season in 2019–2020. Prolific Prep is known for producing high-level talent, and Sharavjamts was no exception.
The COVID-19 pandemic forced Sharavjamts to return to Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, in 2020. Despite the disruption, he used this opportunity to continue honing his skills and representing his home country. He captained the Mongolian U18 team and led them to a sixth-place finish at the 2019 FIBA 3×3 U18 World Cup held in Ulaanbaatar. His leadership and on-court performance during this time were critical in his development, both as a player and as a leader.
In his senior year, Sharavjamts returned to the United States, joining the International Sports Academy (ISA) in Willoughby, Ohio. There, he posted impressive stats, averaging 10.2 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game. His shooting efficiency was a standout, with an impressive 51.2% from beyond the arc. His performance at ISA earned him a four-star recruit status across major recruiting services, including ESPN, Rivals, and 247Sports. His star was rising, and he was quickly being seen as one of the top prospects for the NCAA.
College Career and Rising to Prominence
Sharavjamts’ college journey began at the University of Dayton, where he played for the Flyers during the 2022–2023 season. As a freshman, Sharavjamts quickly made his mark, starting 20 of the 32 games he played in. His numbers were solid, averaging 5.6 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game, showing his all-around abilities. One of his most notable moves came when he entered the 2023 NBA Draft before withdrawing to continue his college career. This move signaled that Sharavjamts had professional aspirations and believed in his potential to play at the highest level.
The next chapter of Sharavjamts’ college career took place at the University of San Francisco. After transferring there, he quickly became a key contributor for the Dons during the 2023–2024 season. Sharavjamts started in all 34 games and averaged 7.7 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game. His defensive capabilities also shone through, as he racked up 32 steals and 15 blocks. Sharavjamts’ all-around game continued to develop, showcasing his versatility on both ends of the floor.
In the 2024–2025 season, Sharavjamts transferred again, this time to the University of Utah. His tenure with the Utes was another step in his collegiate evolution. In this season, he posted 7.4 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game, further solidifying his ability to impact the game in various ways. His shooting remained effective, with percentages of 41.6% from the field and 32.1% from three-point range. His experience across multiple programs gave him a well-rounded perspective and a diverse set of skills that would make him an asset wherever he played.
The Commitment to South Carolina: A New Chapter
After playing for three different programs, Sharavjamts made the decision to commit to the South Carolina Gamecocks on April 21, 2025. This commitment was a game-changer for South Carolina’s basketball program, as they not only gain a player with significant college experience but also secure an athlete with an international background that will add a new layer of diversity to the team.
Sharavjamts’ commitment is especially significant because he is the first Mongolian athlete to commit to a Division I program in the United States. This historic milestone is symbolic for both Sharavjamts and the Mongolian basketball community. By earning a Division I scholarship, Sharavjamts has paved the way for future Mongolian athletes to pursue opportunities in American college basketball.
South Carolina head coach Lamont Paris and his staff were undoubtedly thrilled to land a player of Sharavjamts’ caliber. Known for his versatility, Sharavjamts is capable of playing multiple positions on the floor, making him a valuable asset for the Gamecocks. His defensive ability, combined with his scoring and playmaking skills, will allow him to contribute immediately. In addition to his skill set, Sharavjamts brings a unique international flair that will enrich the team’s culture and broaden the Gamecocks’ global reach.
The Impact on South Carolina and Beyond
Sharavjamts’ commitment is likely to have a significant impact not only on the South Carolina basketball program but also on the broader college basketball landscape. His international background makes him a valuable representative of the increasing globalization of college sports. As the first Mongolian player to earn a Division I scholarship, he is setting a new precedent for athletes from his home country, showing that hard work and dedication can open doors to opportunities on a global stage.
For South Carolina, Sharavjamts’ addition to the roster bolsters an already promising 2025 recruiting class. He joins a talented group of newcomers, including fellow transfers and high school recruits, making the Gamecocks’ roster deeper and more competitive. His leadership and experience will provide invaluable guidance for the younger players on the team, and his playmaking ability will help elevate the overall performance of the Gamecocks.
Looking ahead, Sharavjamts will be one of the most closely watched players in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) during the 2025–2026 season. His combination of size, skill, and international experience will allow him to make an immediate impact in the SEC, a conference known for its intense competition and high-level basketball. Fans and analysts alike will be eager to see how Sharavjamts’ unique background and talent translate to the collegiate game at the highest level.
The Future of Mongolian Basketball
Sharavjamts’ rise through the ranks of American college basketball is a powerful testament to the growing interest in Mongolian basketball. His success offers hope and inspiration to young athletes in Mongolia who may have previously seen such opportunities as out of reach. As Sharavjamts continues to make his mark in college basketball, he will undoubtedly serve as a role model for aspiring athletes in Mongolia and beyond.
The commitment of Mike Sharavjamts to the South Carolina Gamecocks marks a milestone in the history of both the Gamecocks’ basketball program and Mongolian basketball. With his versatility, leadership, and international experience, Sharavjamts is poised to make an immediate impact on the court and continue to inspire athletes around the world. As he transitions into his new role with the Gamecocks, the future looks bright for both Sharavjamts and South Carolina basketball.
