Gamecocks gain national spotlight as 5-star guard Brooklyn Stewart, the No. 1 player in the 2025 class, commits to South Carolina, boosting future recruiting efforts.

A wave of excitement rippled through the South Carolina Gamecocks basketball community on Tuesday as the highly anticipated announcement arrived: 5-star guard Brooklyn Stewart, the No. 1 overall player in the 2025 recruiting class according to 247Sports, has committed to the program. This decision marks a pivotal moment for head coach Dawn Staley and the Gamecocks, further solidifying their status as one of the premier programs in college basketball.

Brooklyn Stewart, a dynamic and explosive player from Charlotte, North Carolina, has long been considered one of the most sought-after prospects in women’s basketball. The 6-foot-1 guard has drawn comparisons to some of the best to ever play the game, with a skill set that combines scoring, vision, and defense in a way that makes her an immediate impact player at the college level.

Her commitment to South Carolina is not only a significant win for Staley and her staff but also a statement to the rest of the basketball world. The Gamecocks are not just contenders—they are becoming the program that players want to be a part of. Stewart’s decision adds fuel to the fire for a team that has already established itself as a national powerhouse, and her addition will only enhance their chances at continued success in the coming years.

Brooklyn Stewart: A Game-Changing Talent

Brooklyn Stewart’s journey to prominence in the world of college basketball has been nothing short of remarkable. From her early days in youth leagues to her high school career at Providence Day School, Stewart has continuously shown that she possesses the kind of talent that comes around once in a generation. As a freshman, she quickly earned a reputation for her scoring ability, finishing plays at the rim with authority and demonstrating an ability to create opportunities for her teammates.

Her combination of athleticism, court vision, and basketball IQ made her a standout not just in her state of North Carolina but across the nation. By the time she entered her senior year of high school, Stewart had already become a household name in recruiting circles, with major programs from all over the country vying for her signature.

What sets Stewart apart from other elite players is her all-around game. While she is an exceptional scorer, able to create her own shot or finish in transition, she is also a tenacious defender who can lock down multiple positions. This versatility is what makes her such an exciting prospect for Staley, who has built a program around unselfish play and defensive dominance.

South Carolina has consistently been one of the top teams in women’s basketball under Staley’s leadership, and Stewart’s commitment only enhances the program’s future. Known for their strong defensive play, South Carolina will now have one of the most electrifying players in the country on both ends of the floor.

Dawn Staley’s Continued Dominance in Recruiting

Dawn Staley’s ability to land top-tier talent year after year has made her one of the most respected coaches in college basketball. Her recruiting efforts have helped elevate South Carolina into a national championship contender, with the Gamecocks capturing the NCAA title in 2017 and remaining a fixture at the top of the rankings in subsequent seasons.

Staley has built a program where players develop both on and off the court, emphasizing discipline, teamwork, and a commitment to excellence. Her success in recruiting players like A’ja Wilson, Aliyah Boston, and Zia Cooke has helped put South Carolina on the map, and with Stewart now in the fold, it’s clear that the Gamecocks are poised to continue their rise as one of the sport’s elite programs.

For Staley, landing Stewart is a testament to the program’s culture and commitment to excellence. The Gamecocks are known for their passionate fanbase, their commitment to defense, and their ability to develop players into pros, and Stewart’s addition only strengthens those elements.

“Brooklyn Stewart is everything we look for in a player,” said Staley. “She’s a competitor, she’s unselfish, and she’s a winner. Her commitment to South Carolina speaks volumes about where we’re headed as a program. We’re thrilled to have her join the Gamecock family.”

Impact on South Carolina’s 2025 Recruiting Class

With Stewart’s commitment, the Gamecocks have positioned themselves to have one of the top recruiting classes in 2025. Stewart, already a five-star player, is joined by several other talented recruits, making this class one of the most anticipated in recent memory. The addition of Stewart, in particular, adds a new dimension to South Carolina’s future lineup.

In addition to Stewart, the Gamecocks are expected to sign multiple high-profile players in the 2025 class, including top-tier forwards and other highly ranked guards. Staley’s recruiting prowess has ensured that South Carolina is set to remain at the forefront of college basketball for years to come.

As one of the premier recruiting programs in the country, South Carolina continues to attract top talent, and with Stewart now on board, the Gamecocks look set to continue their dominance. Staley’s philosophy of building a well-rounded team, rather than simply relying on individual stars, has proven to be successful. However, with Stewart’s potential to be a game-changer, the Gamecocks’ recruiting class is poised to be the centerpiece of the program’s future.

Building Toward National Championships

Stewart’s commitment to South Carolina only enhances the program’s chances of winning more national championships in the years ahead. The Gamecocks are already one of the top teams in the country, and with players like Stewart joining the roster, they have an opportunity to build a dynasty.

Staley’s track record of developing players into professionals is another reason why top recruits like Stewart are flocking to Columbia. Stewart’s decision to commit to South Carolina is a direct reflection of Staley’s ability to create an environment where players can thrive and reach their full potential. South Carolina’s history of producing WNBA-caliber players, along with the team’s emphasis on winning at the highest level, has made the Gamecocks one of the most attractive programs for top recruits.

In addition to their national title in 2017, the Gamecocks have consistently contended for championships, with recent seasons seeing the team finish as one of the top-ranked programs in the country. With Stewart on board, the Gamecocks are now even better positioned to compete for titles in the coming years.

The Future of South Carolina Women’s Basketball

As Stewart prepares to join the Gamecocks for the 2025 season, the excitement around the program is palpable. South Carolina fans are eager to see what this young star can bring to the team, and Stewart herself is eager to prove herself on the national stage.

South Carolina is building something special under Dawn Staley, and with Stewart’s commitment, the future is brighter than ever. As the Gamecocks continue to attract top talent and build their roster, they will remain a force in college basketball for years to come.

Stewart’s impact on the team will be felt both on and off the court. Her leadership, work ethic, and dedication to the game make her a perfect fit for Staley’s system, and her arrival in Columbia signals the beginning of another exciting chapter for South Carolina women’s basketball.

A New Era of Success for South Carolina

The commitment of Brooklyn Stewart marks the beginning of a new era for South Carolina women’s basketball. With her talent, leadership, and drive, she is sure to make an immediate impact on the program, helping to elevate the Gamecocks to even greater heights. As Stewart joins a roster filled with talented players, the Gamecocks are poised to continue their dominance in the SEC and on the national stage.

With Brooklyn Stewart leading the way, South Carolina women’s basketball is ready to take the next step toward more championships and continued success in the years to come. For Gamecocks fans, the future has never looked brighter.