BREAKING: Top 2 US Player Chooses South Carolina Over LSU and Georgia—Here’s Why Fans Are Celebrating
COLUMBIA, SC – In a monumental recruiting victory that sent waves of jubilation through Gamecock Nation, Agot Makeer, the highly-coveted No. 2 overall player in the Class of 2025, has officially committed to the South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball program. The decision, announced on March 1, 2025, comes after a fiercely contested recruitment battle against powerhouse programs like LSU and the Georgia Bulldogs, solidifying South Carolina’s position as a dominant force in collegiate women’s basketball for years to come.
This commitment is not merely another feather in the cap for Coach Dawn Staley’s program; it represents a strategic and symbolic triumph. Landing a prospect of Makeer’s caliber, especially over direct SEC rivals, underscores the Gamecocks’ unparalleled appeal and their continued ability to attract the nation’s elite talent. Fans are rightfully celebrating this signing as a critical step in maintaining South Carolina’s championship pedigree.
The Recruiting Battle: A Testament to Sustained Excellence
The pursuit of Agot Makeer was one of the most intense and closely watched recruitments in the 2025 cycle. Every major women’s basketball program in the country vied for her services, but the final contention came down to three SEC heavyweights:
LSU Tigers: The reigning national champions (at the time of Makeer’s commitment, having won in 2023, though South Carolina would go on to win the 2024 championship) under Kim Mulkey, LSU presented an incredibly attractive option with their recent success, high-octane offense, and significant NIL opportunities. They have built a strong recruiting class and were aggressively pursuing Makeer to complement their roster.
Georgia Bulldogs: A program with a rich history and a committed coaching staff, Georgia offered the chance to be a foundational piece in a competitive SEC environment. They were keen on keeping top talent within the state and region.
However, Dawn Staley and the South Carolina Gamecocks ultimately prevailed. The reasons for Makeer’s decision are multifaceted, reflecting the comprehensive strength of the Gamecocks’ program:
Dawn Staley’s Unrivaled Leadership and Vision: This is perhaps the most significant factor. Coach Staley’s reputation as a player development guru, a proven winner, and a genuine, inspiring leader is unparalleled. She has cultivated a program built on hard work, accountability, and a deep sense of family. Recruits consistently cite her authenticity and the clear pathway she lays out for their growth, both on and off the court. Makeer undoubtedly saw how Staley transforms top prospects into WNBA stars and national champions.
A Culture of Winning and Development: South Carolina has been a consistent presence in the Final Four and National Championship picture for years. The opportunity to join a program that routinely competes for national titles was a huge draw. Furthermore, the Gamecocks’ track record of developing players, turning five-star recruits into WNBA lottery picks, speaks for itself. Players see a direct path from Columbia to professional success.
Player Fit and Role: The Gamecocks likely presented a clear vision for how Makeer would fit into their system. With their unique blend of versatility, size, and defensive prowess, South Carolina’s style of play would allow Makeer to maximize her diverse skill set, playing both as a combo guard and on the wing.
Fan Support and Atmosphere: Colonial Life Arena consistently leads the nation in women’s basketball attendance, creating an electric atmosphere that is second to none. The passion of the Gamecock fan base is a powerful recruiting tool, offering an unmatched experience for student-athletes.
NIL Opportunities: While not the sole deciding factor, South Carolina, as a national brand with immense fan support, is well-positioned to provide significant Name, Image, and Likeness opportunities for its athletes, adding another layer of appeal for top recruits.
Agot Makeer’s Profile: A Dynamic, Versatile Talent
Agot Makeer, standing between 6-foot-1 and 6-foot-2, is considered a five-star prospect and consistently ranked among the top players in the 2025 class by all major recruiting services. ESPN ranks her as the No. 4 overall player, and On3 lists her as the No. 4 player in their industry rankings, solidifying her status as an elite talent.
Makeer’s game is characterized by her exceptional versatility and athleticism:
Combo Guard with Wing Capabilities: She possesses the ball-handling and playmaking skills of a guard but also the size and athleticism to play effectively on the wing. This makes her a nightmare matchup for opponents.
Scoring Prowess: Makeer can score at all three levels. She has a reliable jump shot, extending her range beyond the three-point arc, and the ability to attack the basket and finish strong. Her offensive game is well-rounded and efficient.
Defensive Versatility: Coach Staley famously emphasizes defense, and Makeer fits the mold perfectly. Her length, quickness, and aggressive nature allow her to guard multiple positions, making her a “Swiss army knife” on the defensive end. This versatility will be invaluable in Staley’s defensive schemes.
High Basketball IQ: Beyond her physical gifts, Makeer displays a strong understanding of the game, making smart decisions with the ball and anticipating plays on both ends of the court.
Winner’s Mentality: She has consistently excelled in high-level competition, showcasing a competitive drive that aligns perfectly with South Carolina’s championship aspirations.
Impact on South Carolina and the SEC
The commitment of Agot Makeer significantly bolsters South Carolina’s 2025 recruiting class, joining fellow five-star prospect Ayla McDowell (ranked No. 22 overall by espnW). This formidable duo instantly gives the Gamecocks one of the top, if not the top, recruiting classes in the nation.
For the SEC, Makeer’s decision further solidifies the conference’s standing as the premier league in women’s college basketball. The continued arms race in recruiting between programs like South Carolina, LSU, and potentially new contenders ensures a high level of competition for years to come.
As South Carolina graduates key seniors and navigates potential WNBA draft decisions from current players, Makeer’s arrival provides a crucial infusion of elite talent that can contribute immediately. Her skill set makes her a strong candidate for early playing time, and her presence will help maintain the Gamecocks’ status as perennial national championship contenders.
The celebratory mood in Columbia is well-deserved. Agot Makeer’s commitment is a testament to the enduring power of Dawn Staley’s vision and the unyielding support of the Gamecock fan base. This is more than just a recruit; it’s a statement about the future of women’s basketball, and South Carolina is firmly at its forefront.
