In a significant boost to the South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball program, five-star recruit Aaliyah Chavez has committed to join the team, choosing them over notable programs such as Tennessee and Alabama. Chavez, a 5-foot-11 point guard from Monterey High School in Lubbock, Texas, is widely regarded as the No. 1 player in the 2025 recruiting class.
Chavez’s commitment is a testament to her exceptional talent and the strong recruiting efforts of South Carolina’s coaching staff. Throughout her high school career, she has demonstrated remarkable scoring ability, surpassing 4,000 career points and ranking 40th on the all-time girls’ basketball scoring list. Her junior year alone saw her averaging 37.8 points, 10.1 rebounds, 4.4 assists, and 3.5 steals per game. citeturn0search0
The decision to join the Gamecocks aligns with Chavez’s desire to be part of a consistently top-performing program. She has expressed admiration for South Carolina’s sustained success, noting, “They’re always in at least the top four [nationally] so they’re a great program. I want to be at a winning program too.” citeturn0search3
Chavez’s playing style has drawn comparisons to elite players, with ESPN describing her as “arguably the best shooter in the country” and likening her to Kelsey Plum, the NCAA’s all-time leading scorer. citeturn0search1 Her ability to score from anywhere on the court, combined with her defensive prowess and playmaking skills, makes her a valuable addition to the Gamecocks.
South Carolina’s head coach, Dawn Staley, has a proven track record of developing top-tier talent, which likely influenced Chavez’s decision. The Gamecocks’ recent national championships in 2017, 2022, and 2024 have solidified their status as a powerhouse in women’s college basketball. citeturn0search3
Chavez’s commitment not only enhances South Carolina’s roster but also signifies a continued trend of elite recruits choosing the Gamecocks over other prominent programs. Her arrival is highly anticipated and is expected to make an immediate impact on the team’s performance in the upcoming seasons.
This decision also highlights the increasing competitiveness in women’s college basketball recruiting, with top programs vying for the nation’s best talent. Chavez’s choice reflects South Carolina’s esteemed reputation and the promising opportunities it offers to student-athletes aiming for excellence both on and off the court.
