Five-Star Center Somto Okafor Commits to UCLA After Visit to South Carolina
The recruiting battle for one of the most sought-after frontcourt players in the 2026 class has officially ended — and it didn’t go in South Carolina’s favor. Somto Okafor, the talented 6-foot-6 forward from Nigeria, announced her commitment to UCLA, choosing the Bruins over South Carolina and Texas after taking official visits to each program in recent weeks.
Okafor’s decision came shortly after a well-documented visit to Columbia, where she spent time with Coach Dawn Staley and the Gamecocks. The visit fueled optimism among South Carolina fans, who believed the team had made a strong impression. Staley, known for her success in developing dominant post players like A’ja Wilson and Aliyah Boston, pitched Okafor on the program’s tradition of elite bigs and its winning culture.
But in the end, Okafor’s heart led her west.
“UCLA just felt like home,” Okafor said in her announcement. “The energy, the people, and the opportunities both on and off the court were everything I was looking for. I could see myself growing as a player and a person in Los Angeles.”
Sources close to the recruitment revealed that Okafor’s decision was influenced by both basketball and lifestyle factors. The allure of Los Angeles — a global hub for international athletes — and UCLA’s strong record of integrating international players played a key role.
“Somto really connected with the city,” one recruiting insider noted. “She’s an international player, and UCLA offered her a community and resources that made her feel at ease. That, combined with Coach Cori Close’s system, made it the right fit.”
Okafor’s commitment marks yet another win for Coach Cori Close, who continues to elevate UCLA’s presence on the national stage. Known for her explosive athleticism, defensive instincts, and ability to run the floor, Okafor brings a versatile inside-out game that fits perfectly with UCLA’s fast-paced style.
For South Carolina, however, the news adds to what has been a challenging recruiting week. The Gamecocks — who started strong with the commitment of Kelsi Andrews — have since missed on several high-profile targets, including Sitaya Fagan (USC) and Isi Etute (UCLA).
Despite the setbacks, analysts caution against reading too much into the recent string of losses.
“This isn’t a sign of panic for South Carolina,” one source said. “Dawn Staley’s program is still one of the most attractive destinations in college basketball. The Gamecocks have always been patient recruiters — they’ll regroup and land elite talent, whether through high school commitments or the transfer portal.”
Indeed, South Carolina remains in contention for several top-50 prospects, including Olivia Vukosa and Lola Lampley, who are both expected to visit Columbia later this month.
Okafor, meanwhile, becomes the latest in a growing list of elite prospects heading to Westwood, joining a class that now looks like one of the best in the nation.
“It’s a dream come true,” Okafor said. “I can’t wait to get to work and represent UCLA.”
As the recruiting landscape continues to evolve — and NIL deals, international exposure, and player development all play larger roles — programs like South Carolina and UCLA are adapting in real time. For now, though, the spotlight shines brightly on Los Angeles, where Somto Okafor’s journey as a future Bruin is just beginning.
