South Carolina Basketball Coach Lamont Paris Says Gamecocks Are Actively Pursuing Final Roster Piece to Complete Competitive Squad
South Carolina men’s basketball program is on the rise, and head coach Lamont Paris has made it clear that the Gamecocks are not done building yet. As the offseason rolls forward and the summer workouts begin to shape the 2025 squad, Paris publicly acknowledged that South Carolina is actively seeking to add one more player to complete their roster. For fans of the program and followers of SEC basketball, this news adds another layer of intrigue to an already exciting offseason.
Paris, who led the Gamecocks to an impressive 26-win season, a second-place finish in the SEC, and a return to the NCAA Tournament, has proven he knows how to build competitive teams. In just two seasons, he’s turned around a program that had grown stagnant and placed South Carolina back on the national radar. But for Paris, the work never stops. His eyes are already fixed on how to elevate this group even further. That means optimizing the roster with one final addition who can make an impact right away.
The Gamecocks have seen some turnover this offseason, as is typical in today’s era of college basketball. With players graduating, testing the NBA waters, or transferring in search of different opportunities, no roster stays the same from year to year. South Carolina is no exception. That’s why Paris and his staff are leaving no stone unturned in their search for the final piece. Whether it’s a veteran guard, a versatile wing, or an athletic big man, the type of player Paris brings in could be pivotal in determining just how high South Carolina’s ceiling is next season.
What makes this pursuit particularly interesting is that South Carolina already has a strong core intact. Talented returners, promising newcomers, and experienced transfers have all helped the Gamecocks reload, not rebuild. Meechie Johnson’s decision to return after testing the NBA Draft waters was a significant win for Paris. The same can be said about the addition of elite shooter Arden Conyers and former Florida big man Josh Gray. But there’s a sense that Paris still wants to plug one more hole. He’s hinted that the search is not just about filling a scholarship but finding someone who complements the current group.
Roster construction in the modern game is more art than science. Between the transfer portal, NIL dynamics, and early draft declarations, college coaches have to act quickly and decisively. Paris is clearly aware of this, and he’s embracing the challenge. His openness about wanting one more player shows his transparency but also his competitiveness. It’s a signal to recruits, current players, and fans alike that he’s doing everything he can to make this team elite.
From a strategic standpoint, the Gamecocks could be looking for depth at several positions. Despite their strong perimeter play, adding another guard with size and defensive prowess could give them flexibility. If Paris believes rebounding and interior defense are still areas to improve, a rim-protecting forward could be the target. There’s also the chance he might want a hybrid wing—someone who can stretch the floor, switch defensively, and bring high energy off the bench. Whatever the profile, it’s clear the bar is high for this final spot.
South Carolina’s schedule next season won’t do them any favors. The SEC is as strong as ever, and the Gamecocks have ambitions not just to return to the tournament but to make a deep run. That takes depth, resilience, and elite talent. Paris seems to believe that one more strategic addition could be the difference-maker when it comes to surviving the grind of conference play and pushing through March.
Another angle to consider is how this final addition might impact team chemistry. One of the hallmarks of Paris’ teams has been cohesion. He’s built a culture where players buy in, roles are clearly defined, and egos don’t get in the way. Bringing in the wrong kind of player, even if talented, could upset that balance. That’s why Paris is likely taking his time. He’s not just recruiting skill—he’s recruiting mindset, attitude, and fit. He wants someone who will embrace the culture and elevate it, not disrupt it.
Paris also has the benefit of momentum. South Carolina’s success last season wasn’t a fluke—it was a product of tough defense, smart offense, and strong leadership. The return of experienced players gives him a core to build around, and he doesn’t need to make a desperation move. The final roster spot is about sharpening the edge, not plugging a leak.
Still, fans are eager to see who might join. Rumors will swirl, names will surface, and the portal will remain active into July. There’s always the chance a late decommitment or a reclassified high school star becomes available. South Carolina is in a position to capitalize because of the credibility Paris has built and the relationships he’s cultivated.
There’s also a growing respect nationally for what South Carolina is building. Paris has created a blueprint that other programs are watching—balance veteran leadership with dynamic young talent, prioritize defense, and emphasize development. Players looking for a place to grow and compete immediately are paying attention. That bodes well not just for this final roster spot but for the program’s long-term health.
The recruiting pitch is also different now. A year ago, South Carolina was selling potential and vision. Now, they’re selling proof. Players saw the Gamecocks beat top teams, compete for the SEC title, and dance in March. Paris can point to his coaching success and say, “We’re already good—come help make us great.” That’s a powerful message, and it’s likely why South Carolina remains in the conversation for some of the top uncommitted players.
In today’s era, fans are more plugged in than ever. They follow recruiting closely, analyze roster movement, and debate transfer additions on social media. So when Paris speaks publicly about looking for another player, it carries weight. It tells the fanbase that he’s not content. It tells the players in the locker room that he’s pushing for greatness. And it tells the competition that South Carolina intends to be a major force again.
There’s no question that the search for the final roster addition is a subplot worth watching. It represents more than just another player—it represents South Carolina’s ambition, Paris’ relentless drive, and the continued evolution of a program that is becoming one of the most exciting stories in college basketball. The question isn’t whether the Gamecocks will find someone. The question is who—and how far he can help take them.
As July approaches and the college basketball landscape begins to settle before fall camps begin, eyes will remain on Columbia. Lamont Paris has shown he knows what he’s doing. He’s methodical, he’s patient, and above all, he’s hungry. Whether the final addition is a surprise commitment, a late portal entry, or a transfer waiting for the right fit, you can be sure Paris will find the right guy. And when he does, South Carolina’s already impressive roster will be one step closer to being complete.
In the meantime, the rest of the SEC would be wise to take note. The Gamecocks aren’t just content to be good. They want to be great—and they’re still building.
