Incredible Wins: Five-Star Elite Sophomore, No. 34 Overall ESPN Hooper Nyla Harris Commits to South Carolina Gamecocks Over Louisville, Tennessee, and BYU
Columbia, SC – April 16, 2025 — The South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball program continues its dominance on the recruiting trail as they secured yet another massive win with the commitment of five-star sophomore Nyla Harris, ranked No. 34 overall in the ESPNW Class of 2026. The 6-foot-1 dynamic wing from Orlando, Florida, made her decision public during a nationally streamed announcement on Wednesday morning, choosing the Gamecocks over finalists Louisville, Tennessee, and BYU.
Wearing a garnet and black Gamecocks hoodie, Harris grinned with pride as she revealed her decision that sent shockwaves through the women’s basketball community.
“This is where I feel at home,” Harris said. “Coach Staley’s vision, the winning tradition, and the family culture here—it all just clicked for me. I want to win national championships, grow into the best version of myself, and be coached by one of the greatest to ever do it.”
A Rising Star with Sky-High Potential
Harris, who plays for the nationally respected Florida Blaze AAU program and is a standout at Orange Vista High School, has drawn attention for her versatility, length, and tenacity on both ends of the court. At 6-foot-1, she possesses a lethal combination of athleticism and skill, able to score from all three levels, defend multiple positions, and lead her team with poise beyond her years.
In her sophomore season, she averaged 19.4 points, 8.1 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 2.6 steals per game, while leading her team to the state semifinals. Scouts praise her footwork, court vision, and elite defensive instincts. It’s no surprise that she quickly rose to No. 34 on ESPNW’s national recruiting rankings for the Class of 2026.
Coach Staley’s Recruiting Magic Continues
The commitment is yet another testament to Coach Dawn Staley’s unmatched recruiting prowess. Fresh off a perfect season and a national championship win in 2024, Staley is building what many are already calling the next great dynasty in women’s college basketball.
Adding a high-upside, two-way player like Harris to an already loaded pipeline of talent ensures South Carolina will remain a national powerhouse for years to come.
“Nyla is a special player,” said Gamecocks assistant coach Jolette Law. “She has the heart of a champion, a high basketball IQ, and the hunger to be great. We knew from the first time we watched her that she could be the next face of our program.”
The Final Four: Why South Carolina Won
Harris had narrowed her list to four prestigious programs—South Carolina, Louisville, Tennessee, and BYU—each offering unique advantages. Louisville presented a strong local connection and a fast-paced offense under Coach Jeff Walz. Tennessee offered a historic brand and tradition, while BYU had impressed Harris with its player development and strong academics.
Yet, it was South Carolina’s relentless culture of excellence and Dawn Staley’s legendary mentorship that sealed the deal.
“I’ve been watching Coach Staley since I was little,” Harris said. “She empowers her players, not just as athletes but as women. That really matters to me.”
A Message to the Nation
The commitment of Harris sends a strong message to the rest of the nation: the Gamecocks are not slowing down anytime soon. Already boasting the No. 1 recruiting class for 2025, South Carolina now begins to stack their 2026 class with a five-star gem who many analysts believe could rise even higher in the rankings as she enters her junior year.
“She’s a future pro,” said ESPNW recruiting analyst Shane Doran. “Nyla Harris is just scratching the surface. In South Carolina’s system, she could develop into one of the most complete wings in the country.”
What’s Next for Harris?
While she’s already reached a major milestone, Harris says she’s hungrier than ever.
“This is just the beginning. I’ve got a lot of work to do, and I’m going to keep grinding,” she said. “But knowing where I’m going—knowing I’ll be a Gamecock—that just gives me more motivation to stay locked in.”
South Carolina fans can rest easy knowing the future is in good hands. With Nyla Harris now committed, the path to continued dominance looks as strong as ever.
The dynasty grows. The Gamecocks rise. And Nyla Harris is ready to fly.
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