South Carolina Basketball’s Bright Future: Key Young Players Returning for the 2025-2026 Season
As the South Carolina Gamecocks prepare for the 2025-2026 basketball season, both the men’s and women’s programs are entering a pivotal chapter. With key roster changes and big ambitions, the focus is clear: build, adapt, and compete at the highest level.
After a tough 12-20 finish last season, head coach Lamont Paris and the men’s team are hitting reset in a big way. The Gamecocks have been active in the transfer portal, bringing in fresh talent with real potential to turn things around.
Of course, not all the news is about arrivals. The program also saw the departure of former top recruit Cam Scott, who entered the transfer portal after a quiet freshman year. Junior guard Zachary Davis, a steady contributor who started 19 games, has also moved on.
Still, there’s reason for optimism. Juniors Jordan Butler and Arden Conyers are staying put, bringing experience and leadership to a team in transition. If the chemistry clicks, this could be one of the more intriguing rebuilds in the SEC.
The South Carolina Gamecocks wrapped up another stellar women’s basketball season under head coach Dawn Staley, reaching their third national championship game in five years with a 35-3 record. They clinched both a share of the SEC regular-season title and the SEC Tournament championship, and achieved impressive winning streaks of 17 and 12 games. However, their campaign ended in disappointment with a lopsided 82-59 loss to UConn in the national title game.
Despite the loss, the future remains bright for the Gamecocks. While seniors Bree Hall, Sania Feagin, Te-Hina Paopa, and Sakima Walker will depart, most key players are expected to return, including injured Ashlyn Watkins. The team also welcomes a highly ranked freshman class, led by No. 4 recruit Agot Makeer. Coach Staley’s leadership and a strong incoming roster suggest South Carolina remains poised for continued success and future championship contention.
As both programs look ahead, the Gamecocks are well-positioned to build upon their successes and continue to be a force in college basketball.
