JUST IN: South Carolina Gamecocks Women’s Basketball Lands Five-Star Guard Olivia Hamlin Over Major SEC Competitors, 2026 Class Commitments Set for South Carolina
In a major development for the South Carolina women’s basketball program, head coach Dawn Staley has secured a huge recruiting victory with the commitment of five-star guard Olivia Hamlin. The highly sought-after 2026 prospect chose South Carolina over several top SEC rivals, solidifying the Gamecocks’ position as one of the dominant forces in women’s college basketball for years to come.
Hamlin, regarded as one of the top players in the 2026 recruiting class, had a host of suitors, including some of the biggest programs in the SEC. However, the talented guard made it clear that her heart was set on continuing her basketball journey with South Carolina. Her decision to join the Gamecocks comes after a standout high school career in which she has already earned a reputation as a versatile and explosive player, capable of scoring from anywhere on the court, while also being a force defensively.
“I’m beyond excited to announce my commitment to the University of South Carolina,” Hamlin said in her statement. “Coach Staley, her staff, and the program’s culture have made me feel at home. I believe in what they are building at South Carolina, and I’m ready to be part of a team that’s focused on greatness. I can’t wait to contribute to the success of this program and help take it to even greater heights.”
Hamlin’s commitment is a monumental win for the Gamecocks, who have become a premier destination for elite women’s basketball talent. Her ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor will make her an immediate asset for South Carolina, adding to an already stacked roster that has consistently competed for national championships. Known for her strong leadership skills, elite ball-handling, and exceptional scoring ability, Hamlin has the potential to be one of the top guards in the nation by the time she steps onto the college court.
Her decision to choose South Carolina comes after months of intense recruitment from several other SEC schools, all of which recognized her exceptional talent. Hamlin was courted by major programs like Tennessee, LSU, and Georgia, but ultimately chose the Gamecocks because of their winning culture, commitment to player development, and the opportunity to play for one of the best coaches in the country in Staley. The program’s consistent success in the SEC and on the national stage was also a major factor in her decision.
Hamlin’s addition further strengthens an already impressive 2026 class for South Carolina, which has been assembling one of the most talented recruiting classes in the country. The Gamecocks have become known for their elite-level recruiting, and securing a player of Hamlin’s caliber only enhances their position as a future powerhouse. Her commitment also solidifies Staley’s continued efforts to dominate the SEC and remain a fixture in the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament’s final stages.
For South Carolina fans, this is a momentous achievement in the program’s ongoing rise to prominence. With Hamlin joining the fold, the Gamecocks’ already high expectations are only set to rise further, as she will play a pivotal role in the team’s future success. Staley has built a culture of excellence, and Hamlin’s commitment represents another key piece in their championship aspirations for years to come.
As Hamlin prepares to head to Columbia in a few years, the future of South Carolina women’s basketball has never looked brighter. With one of the top prospects in the nation now on board, the Gamecocks’ dominance in women’s college basketball is set to continue, and their pursuit of more titles is just getting started.
