The world of college basketball just witnessed another seismic shift. Aaliyah Chavez, the No. 1 ranked player in the Class of 2025, has officially committed to the South Carolina Gamecocks,
choosing Dawn Staley’s powerhouse program over UConn and Michigan State.
The 5-foot-10 point guard from Monterey High School in Lubbock, Texas, had long been a coveted prospect, with some of the biggest programs in the nation vying for her signature. Ultimately, it was the Gamecocks who won the recruiting battle, securing not only one of the most electrifying players in recent history but also a future cornerstone of their program.
A Program-Changing Decision
Chavez’s commitment is more than just another high-profile signing—it’s a statement. South Carolina, already a dominant force in women’s basketball, has now added a generational talent who can elevate the program to even greater heights. Her decision sends a clear message: the Gamecocks are not just competing with the best—they are setting the standard.
“This decision wasn’t just about basketball,” Chavez said during her announcement. “It was about finding a place that felt like home, where I could grow as a player and as a person. South Carolina offered me that. Coach Staley is a legend, and the culture here is something special.”
Coach Staley, who has built South Carolina into a dynasty, wasted no time celebrating the massive recruiting win. “Aaliyah is a game-changer,” Staley said. “She brings an elite skill set, a fierce competitive drive, and a championship mentality. She’s exactly the kind of player we want to build our future around.”
NIL and the Historic $3 Million Deal
In addition to committing to the Gamecocks, Chavez has also signed a historic NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deal worth $3 million, making it the biggest NIL contract in the history of South Carolina women’s basketball.
With NIL opportunities reshaping college sports, Chavez’s deal signifies a new era for women’s basketball. Her agreement includes endorsements with major brands, exclusive appearances, and a social media campaign that will expand her influence beyond the court. Already a social media sensation with millions of followers, Chavez is expected to become one of the most marketable athletes in the NCAA.
“I’ve always wanted to inspire young girls who dream of playing basketball at the highest level,” Chavez said. “This deal isn’t just about me—it’s about proving that women’s basketball is valuable and deserves this kind of investment.”
What Chavez Brings to South Carolina
Chavez is known for her lethal scoring ability, court vision, and leadership. Her deep shooting range and ball-handling skills make her a nightmare for defenders, while her basketball IQ allows her to control the tempo of a game effortlessly. She averaged 30 points, 7 assists, and 6 rebounds per game in her senior year, drawing comparisons to WNBA stars like Kelsey Plum and Sabrina Ionescu.
“She’s the kind of player who can take over a game at any moment,” said one scout. “She has that rare ability to make everyone around her better while still being able to drop 40 points when needed.”
With Chavez joining the Gamecocks, South Carolina’s roster is now even more formidable. She will likely form a dynamic backcourt alongside rising star MiLaysia Fulwiley, giving South Carolina one of the most explosive guard duos in the nation.
Looking Ahead
The Gamecocks are already national championship contenders, and with Chavez in the mix, they will enter the 2025 season as the favorites to cut down the nets. Her arrival cements South Carolina’s status as the premier destination for elite women’s basketball talent.
As she prepares to step onto the biggest stage in college basketball, one thing is certain: Aaliyah Chavez’s journey is only just beginning. And for South Carolina fans, the future has never looked brighter.
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