Columbia, SC* – A wave of excitement rippled through the South Carolina Gamecocks basketball community on Tuesday as the highly anticipated announcement finally arrived: 5-star guard Brooklyn Stewart, the No. 1 overall player in the 2025 recruiting class according to 247Sports, has committed to Dawn Staley’s program. The commitment marks a monumental win for South Carolina, reinforcing its dominance in women’s college basketball and adding another elite talent to its already impressive recruiting pipeline.
Stewart, a dynamic 6-foot-1 combo guard from Houston, Texas, has been widely regarded as a generational talent with her rare blend of speed, scoring, court vision, and defensive intensity. Averaging 27.4 points, 7.8 assists, and 4.2 steals per game during her junior year, she’s earned comparisons to WNBA stars with her poise, versatility, and leadership. Her decision to commit to South Carolina over top-tier programs like UConn, LSU, and Stanford is seen as a major recruiting coup for the Gamecocks.
“I felt an instant connection with Coach Staley and the culture she’s built,” Stewart said in a video shared on social media. “It’s more than just basketball at South Carolina — it’s about family, growth, and legacy. I want to be part of something special.”
The commitment bolsters what was already shaping up to be a top-five recruiting class for 2025. Stewart joins fellow 5-star recruit Tiana Jackson, a dominant post player from Georgia, and 4-star sharpshooter Amaya Reynolds from Indiana, giving South Carolina one of the most balanced and dangerous incoming classes in the nation.
Coach Dawn Staley, fresh off another Final Four appearance, has consistently brought in elite talent, but Stewart’s commitment may be her most significant yet. Stewart is not only the top-ranked player in the class, but she also brings a magnetic presence and marketability that’s already generating national buzz.
“Brooklyn is a game-changer — on and off the court,” Staley said in a statement. “She has the kind of mentality, skillset, and drive that fits perfectly with our system. She’s hungry to win, and she understands the responsibility that comes with wearing the Garnet and Black.”
The impact of Stewart’s decision is already being felt beyond Columbia. Social media lit up within minutes of her announcement, with fans, analysts, and fellow players expressing their excitement. National media outlets began shifting attention to South Carolina’s 2025 squad, with some speculating the Gamecocks could be headed for another championship run with Stewart leading the way.
For Stewart, the commitment marks the culmination of a lifelong dream — and the beginning of a new chapter in her basketball journey. Her high school coach, Marcus Dean, said she’s always embraced the spotlight and thrives in pressure situations. “Brooklyn’s a competitor. The brighter the lights, the better she plays. South Carolina is getting a leader, a worker, and a winner.”
As the Gamecocks look ahead, Stewart’s presence not only boosts their title hopes but also ensures that South Carolina remains a magnet for the nation’s top talent. With her on board, the future is brighter than ever in Columbia.
