With the recruiting shutdown now over, the college basketball landscape is heating up once again. During the shutdown, no contact of any kind was allowed between coaches and recruits. But with that temporary freeze lifted, eyes now turn to a busy summer ahead, filled with critical evaluation windows and high-stakes decisions for both schools and top prospects.
While most of the summer falls under quiet periods—meaning in-person recruiting can only take place on campus—there are also four key “live periods” remaining on the calendar. These weekends are vital for programs, as they coincide with major AAU travel circuit events, drawing attendance from coaches across the country.
Remaining Live Evaluation Periods:
- May 16–18
- June 12–14
- July 11–14
- July 18–21
The calendar for the 2025–26 recruiting cycle, which begins in August, hasn’t been released yet, but it typically kicks off with a quiet period and includes a weeklong dead period.
The 2026 recruiting class is shaping up to be one of the strongest in years—something that could be pivotal for South Carolina, which hasn’t had a major signing class (four or more players) since 2021. With three players from the 2022 and 2023 classes transferring out, head coach Dawn Staley has so far avoided having to build through the portal. But unless the Gamecocks secure a big class soon, that may change.
While most recruits haven’t yet narrowed down their final choices, here are some of the top names to watch over the coming months:
Top 2026 Recruits to Watch:
- Saniyah Hall (6’2″ Wing, On3 No. 1)
A dominant talent out of Montverde Academy (FL) and originally from Ohio, Hall is widely regarded as the top recruit in the class. She’s a skilled scorer with elite size and the ability to play anywhere on the floor. Hall recently visited North Carolina and has already taken visits to UCLA, USC, and Ohio State, but remains open in her recruitment. - Kate Harpring (5’10” PG, On3 No. 2)
One of the biggest risers last summer, Harpring brings great physicality, instincts, and a versatile offensive game. She’s a priority target for South Carolina, though she hasn’t revealed much about her top choices. - Jerzy Robinson (6’1″ Guard, On3 No. 3)
A prolific scorer from Los Angeles, Robinson has South Carolina high on her list. Her connection to new Gamecocks assistant Wendale Farrow, formerly at USC, could be a factor. However, her recruitment still appears wide open. - Olivia Vukosa (6’5″ Post, On3 No. 4)
A traditional, back-to-the-basket big with Croatian roots, Vukosa is known for her shot-making around the rim. She’s close to UConn’s Nika Muhl and recently named South Carolina in her top seven, though many consider her a longshot for the Gamecocks. - McKenna Woliczko (6’2″ Wing, On3 No. 5)
Despite suffering an ACL tear in January, Woliczko is one of the most well-rounded players in the class. She excels in rebounding, perimeter shooting, and IQ. A former USA Basketball standout, she’s drawing comparisons to Chloe Kitts. A top-10 list is already out, with more cuts expected soon. - Oliviyah Edwards (6’3″ Forward, On3 No. 6)
A phenomenal athlete who’s been described as “a guard in a post’s body.” Edwards is explosive, strong, and even capable of dunking. She draws comparisons to Janiah Barker for her versatility and toughness. - Jayla Jordyn Jackson (6’1″ Wing, On3 No. 10)
A DMV-area product with a silky offensive game, Jackson already includes South Carolina in her top six and has plans to visit the campus this summer. - Savvy Swords (6’1″ Wing, On3 No. 12)
The younger sister of Michigan standout Syla Swords, Savvy has the Gamecocks interested—especially since they struggled to stop Syla last year. Though still considered a longshot, South Carolina has had success recruiting Canadians in recent years. - Amari Byles (6’2″ Guard, On3 No. 14)
A defensive-minded, team-first player who has recently emerged as a late bloomer. With more exposure this summer, Byles is expected to attract a flurry of high-major offers. No early favorites have emerged yet. - Kelsi Andrews (6’4″ Post, On3 No. 17)
A classic low-post presence, Andrews has shown interest in South Carolina and could be a player to keep an eye on as rosters take shape.
As the summer unfolds and live periods kick in, expect recruiting battles to intensify, especially for a program like South Carolina that’s looking to reload with top-tier high school talent instead of turning fully to the portal.
