Sitaya Fagan Explains Why She Chose USC Over South Carolina: Inside Her Decision
The women’s basketball world was buzzing when Sitaya Fagan, the highly rated Australian wing-forward, officially committed to the USC Trojans for the Class of 2026. With her recruitment narrowing to just three finalists — South Carolina, Texas, and USC — many wondered what tipped the scales toward Southern California.
Australian basketball sensation Sitaya Fagan has finally broken her silence on her commitment to the USC Trojans, opening up in a heartfelt message on her Instagram page about the decision that sent shockwaves through the women’s basketball world — especially for Dawn Staley and the South Carolina Gamecocks, who were among her final three choices.
Fagan, standing around 6-foot-4, had long been considered one of the most coveted international prospects thanks to her blend of length, defensive versatility, and athleticism. Her decision to commit to USC marks a major win for the Trojans, but it also represents a tough blow to Dawn Staley’s Gamecocks, who had aggressively courted her.
The Final Three and What Fagan Has Said
Before making her choice, Fagan trimmed a massive offer list down to three schools: USC, South Carolina, and Texas. In a statement to basketball.com.au, she spoke about balancing both her academic and athletic ambitions:
“My mum is a teacher, so I’m big on 50-50 with basketball and education.”
She also acknowledged the absurd level of interest in her:
“It’s going to be a big decision … having offers from those top programs that are also top in education, it’s just really good.” (Basketball Australia)
“USC just felt like home,” Fagan wrote. “The energy, the people, and the vision Coach [Lindsay] Gottlieb shared with me all lined up with what I want for my future. I could see myself not only developing as a player but also as a person in Los Angeles.”
These remarks suggest that beyond the basketball court, quality of education and institutional support played a significant role in her decision-making.
What USC Offered vs. What South Carolina Couldn’t
While South Carolina was certainly in the mix — Fagan was included among the Gamecocks’ finalists ahead of her official visits. Staley’s staff went all in; the Gamecocks hosted Fagan for an official visit and rolled out the red carpet. (Garnet and Cocky)
“Choosing between these schools was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done,” she continued. “Coach Staley and her program are incredible — the culture, the fans, the success — it’s everything any player could dream of. But at the end of the day, I had to follow my heart.”
Still, Fagan ultimately chose USC. Though she hasn’t publicly laid out a detailed list of reasons comparing USC to South Carolina, the signals are clear:
- Academic alignment: She repeatedly expressed how important education is in her choice, and USC’s offerings likely resonated.
- Program vision and opportunity: USC’s rising prestige in women’s basketball, paired with a roster that fits her strengths, likely presented an appealing path to development and exposure.
- Fit and connection: Recruiting isn’t just about numbers — relationships, coaching styles, and vision for her role likely played a major role in her comfort with USC.
Fagan’s emotional post quickly went viral, with fans from both USC and South Carolina flooding her comments with support. Many Gamecock faithful expressed disappointment but also wished her well, recognizing her as a generational talent.
Known for her length, athleticism, and defensive versatility, Fagan has drawn comparisons to stars like A’ja Wilson — the very legend she’ll now face instead of follow. Her ability to dominate both ends of the court has made her a projected future cornerstone for the Trojans, who continue to rise as a national contender under Coach Gottlieb’s leadership.
“I want to be part of something special,” Fagan added. “I believe USC is building something that will change women’s basketball, and I want to be part of that journey.”
For Dawn Staley and the Gamecocks, Fagan’s decision marks a rare recruiting miss, especially after they had been considered strong favorites early in the process. Still, Staley’s program remains stacked with top-tier talent, including multiple five-star recruits in recent classes.
Meanwhile, USC fans are celebrating what could be a program-defining commitment. With Fagan’s size, skill, and international experience, the Trojans’ 2026 recruiting class already looks poised to make waves in the Pac-12 and beyond.
As one fan commented under her post: “LA just got a superstar.”
💬 “USC just felt like home… I’m ready to make my mark,” Fagan concluded.
And just like that, one of the brightest young stars in global basketball has chosen her stage — and the lights of Los Angeles are ready to shine on Sitaya Fagan.
The Road Ahead & Impact for South Carolina
Now that Fagan has officially pledged to USC, the Gamecocks lose one of the most compelling international prospects in recent years. The miss might sting, but South Carolina’s recruiting machine isn’t done. They remain in contention for other top-tier talents. Meanwhile, USC now adds a transformational piece to its future — a player who can guard multiple positions, stretch the floor, and bring championship-level potential.
For Fagan, the next step is arriving on campus with big expectations: to develop, contribute, and help elevate the Trojans to national prominence. USC fans will be watching, excited to see how she transforms their program — and whether she chose wisely.
