Gamecock Freshmen Agot Makeer and Ayla McDowell Set to Shine on International Stage at FIBA U19 Women’s World Cup
COLUMBIA, S.C. – Two rising stars in South Carolina women’s basketball, incoming freshmen Agot Makeer and Ayla McDowell, are gearing up to represent their home countries on the global stage at the FIBA U19 Women’s World Cup, tipping off Saturday, July 12, in Brno, Czechia.
The nine-day international tournament will take place at Starez Arena Vodova, beginning with three days of group-stage matchups before moving into the quarterfinal knockout rounds on Wednesday, July 16, and wrapping up with the medal games on Sunday, July 20.
Makeer will take the court for Team Canada in her second international outing after an impressive showing at the 2024 FIBA U17 Women’s World Cup. She was named to the All-Star 5, averaging 17.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game, and helped Canada secure the silver medal.
“I’m honored to wear my country’s colors again and represent both Canada and South Carolina,” said Makeer, reflecting on her return to international play.
Meanwhile, McDowell will suit up for Brazil, also making her second international appearance of the summer. She recently contributed to Brazil’s silver-medal finish at the 2025 FIBA AmeriCup, following a strong performance at the FIBA U18 AmeriCup earlier this year. There, she averaged 14.8 points and 7.7 rebounds, earning her a spot on the All-Star 5 as Brazil placed fourth.
“It’s been an amazing summer competing at this level,” said McDowell. “I’m excited to keep growing and representing my country and the Gamecocks on this stage.”
Group Play Schedules:
- Canada (Group B)
- vs. Portugal – Saturday, 8:30 a.m. ET
- vs. Nigeria – Sunday, 5:45 a.m. ET
- vs. China – Tuesday, 5:45 a.m. ET
- Brazil (Group C)
- vs. France – Saturday, 5:45 p.m. ET
- vs. Australia – Sunday, 8:00 a.m. ET
- vs. Mali – Tuesday, 2:15 p.m. ET
All tournament games will be streamed live on the FIBA YouTube Channel.
Stay connected with @GamecockWBB on social media and check GamecocksOnline.com for real-time updates on the players’ performances and all the latest on South Carolina women’s basketball.
