DB 2026 Samari Matthews Explains His Selection of the Gamecocks for His Final Four

Why Samari Matthews Added the Gamecocks to His Final Four: A Deep Dive Into His Decision

The college basketball recruiting landscape is a constantly evolving space, where talented players from across the country make decisions that could shape the future of collegiate programs for years to come. In the case of Samari Matthews, a highly sought-after basketball prospect in the 2026 recruiting class, his decision to include the University of South Carolina Gamecocks in his final four schools has created a ripple effect in the basketball community. Matthews, a guard with incredible versatility, has long been considered one of the most exciting young talents in the nation, and his recruitment has been under the spotlight for months. His final four choices have raised plenty of eyebrows, and the inclusion of the Gamecocks in that list signals something bigger than just a single commitment—it reflects the rising appeal of South Carolina’s basketball program under head coach Lamont Paris.

In this in-depth analysis, we’ll explore why Samari Matthews added South Carolina to his final four, what the Gamecocks bring to the table, and how his potential commitment could impact the program. We’ll also look into Matthews’ skill set, the state of South Carolina basketball, and how the recruitment of high-caliber talent like him is setting up a bright future for the Gamecocks.

Samari Matthews: A Rising Star

Before we dive into why Matthews added South Carolina to his list of final four schools, it’s important to understand what makes him such an attractive prospect. Matthews hails from Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and has spent his high school career showcasing his explosive athleticism, scoring ability, and playmaking skills. Standing at 6’5″ and playing as a guard, Matthews has the size, speed, and versatility that make him a threat on both ends of the floor. His ability to score in a variety of ways—whether it’s driving to the basket, pulling up from mid-range, or knocking down three-pointers—has made him one of the top recruits in his class.

Matthews’ high school career has been defined by consistent performances that demonstrate his advanced basketball IQ and physical gifts. His court vision, ability to create for others, and leadership qualities have earned him comparisons to some of the top point guards in the country. He has also shown the capacity to thrive in high-pressure situations, making him an ideal candidate for any college program looking to add a dynamic guard to their roster.

Matthews is also known for his defense, using his length and agility to guard multiple positions on the floor. His ability to defend both on and off the ball is something that has been highlighted by many scouts. As his recruitment has progressed, it has become clear that Matthews is the type of player who can impact every aspect of the game, making him a highly coveted recruit for several top-tier college basketball programs.

The Recruitment Process: The Final Four Schools

Matthews initially garnered attention from some of the most prestigious college basketball programs in the country, with blue-blood programs reaching out early in his recruitment. As his list of potential schools grew, it became apparent that Matthews was not only interested in basketball excellence but also in finding a program that would help him develop as a player and person. Over time, Matthews narrowed his list down to four programs that he felt aligned with his goals, culture, and aspirations. These schools included traditional powers and programs with strong recent histories, making the inclusion of South Carolina all the more intriguing.

As of now, Matthews’ final four consists of:

1. Duke University: One of college basketball’s perennial powerhouses, Duke has long been a destination for elite players looking to play for one of the sport’s most renowned programs. Known for its strong recruiting classes, legendary coach Jon Scheyer, and a history of player development, Duke has undoubtedly been a strong contender for Matthews.
2. University of North Carolina: Another college basketball juggernaut, UNC has historically been one of the most successful and storied programs in the country. With a program that has consistently produced NBA talent, Matthews’ decision to include the Tar Heels speaks volumes about their strong pitch and appeal to a top recruit like him.
3. University of Kentucky: Under head coach John Calipari, Kentucky has become a go-to program for high-level recruits. The Wildcats’ pedigree of producing NBA-level talent and their dominance in the SEC has made them a natural choice for elite players. Kentucky’s flashy and high-octane offense, paired with its track record of developing players, is something that Matthews would no doubt want to be a part of.
4. University of South Carolina: The inclusion of South Carolina in Matthews’ final four, especially with the other programs being perennial powerhouses, is notable and significant. The Gamecocks have become a rising force in college basketball, and under head coach Lamont Paris, the program has continued to improve year after year. With a growing reputation for player development, strong defensive principles, and a program on the rise, South Carolina’s inclusion in Matthews’ list reflects the Gamecocks’ growing stature in the college basketball landscape.

What Makes South Carolina an Attractive Destination?

South Carolina’s inclusion in Matthews’ final four is a testament to the program’s growing reputation, especially under the leadership of Lamont Paris. When Paris took over as head coach in 2022, he inherited a program that had seen highs and lows, but his focus on building a strong, competitive team through player development and defensive identity has started to pay off. The addition of Matthews to the Gamecocks’ potential 2026 class could be a game-changer, and there are several reasons why the Gamecocks are an appealing option for a talent like him.

1. Player Development and Individualized Attention: One of the standout features of Lamont Paris’ coaching philosophy is his emphasis on developing players’ skills and giving them the tools to succeed at the next level. South Carolina has a history of producing NBA-caliber players, and Paris has worked tirelessly to continue that tradition. Matthews, a player with high upside and immense potential, would benefit from Paris’ commitment to player development. South Carolina is a program that values individual growth, making it an ideal fit for a player like Matthews who is looking to take his game to the next level.
2. Strong Defensive Identity: Matthews is a versatile player, but one area that sets him apart is his defensive ability. South Carolina’s emphasis on defense aligns perfectly with Matthews’ skill set. Paris has built a team that prides itself on defensive intensity, and Matthews’ ability to guard multiple positions would make him a key part of the Gamecocks’ defensive efforts. The opportunity to play for a team with such a strong defensive identity is likely an appealing factor for Matthews, who understands that his ability to contribute on both ends of the floor will set him apart as a top-tier player.
3. Opportunity for Early Playing Time: One of the most important factors in any top recruit’s decision is the opportunity to get significant playing time early in their college career. South Carolina is a program that is still building and developing, and Matthews could step in immediately as a focal point of the offense. The chance to make an immediate impact and be a leader on a growing team is likely a strong pull for Matthews, who is looking to showcase his skills from day one. South Carolina offers a pathway to significant minutes and the chance to develop into one of the top players in the SEC.
4. Strong Recruiting Class: While South Carolina has long been considered a basketball underdog in the SEC, the Gamecocks’ recruiting efforts in recent years have raised the profile of the program. By adding Matthews to an already impressive recruiting class, South Carolina would strengthen its position as a contender in the SEC. The Gamecocks’ future looks bright with a core of talented players, and Matthews would be a key piece in their pursuit of postseason success.
5. The South Carolina Basketball Culture: Beyond Xs and Os, Matthews may have been drawn to the culture that Paris has built at South Carolina. The Gamecocks have a passionate fan base, and Matthews’ presence on a team that is continuously improving could be an opportunity to build something special. Paris’ coaching staff has worked hard to create a competitive and supportive environment that fosters individual success while prioritizing team dynamics.

Impact on the Program: What Matthews Would Bring to the Gamecocks

If Matthews ultimately commits to South Carolina, his impact would be significant. As a highly ranked recruit, he would be one of the cornerstone players for the Gamecocks in the 2026 season. His ability to score, play defense, and facilitate offense would make him an immediate impact player. Matthews’ commitment would give the Gamecocks a player capable of being a go-to scorer while also contributing in all facets of the game.

His addition to the Gamecocks would provide a major boost to the program’s efforts to build a perennial contender in the SEC. With Matthews leading the charge, South Carolina could elevate its recruiting profile even further, attracting more top-tier talent in future classes. The combination of Matthews’ individual skills and the Gamecocks’ team-oriented approach would make South Carolina a dangerous team in the SEC and on the national stage.