CONFIRMED: 5-Star Forward from Tacoma Commits to South Carolina Over LSU, Tennessee, and Texas
The South Carolina Gamecocks just landed a massive commitment that could reshape the future of their basketball program. The 6-foot-3 five-star forward from Tacoma, Washington, who stars at Elite Sports Academy, has officially committed to the University of South Carolina, choosing the Gamecocks over powerhouse programs including LSU, Tennessee, and the Texas Longhorns.
The commitment, confirmed Tuesday morning via a statement released on social media, marks a significant recruiting victory for head coach Lamont Paris and the South Carolina staff. The forward—widely regarded as one of the top high school players in the class of 2025—brings explosive athleticism, polished scoring ability, and elite defensive versatility to the Gamecocks’ future lineup.
Columbia Felt Like Home
In an exclusive interview, the Tacoma native explained the decision.
South Carolina felt like home the moment I stepped on campus,” he said. “Coach Paris and his staff kept it real with me from day one. They laid out a vision not just for how I’d fit into their system, but for how I’d grow as a person and player.
The forward took official visits to all four finalist schools but said the connection with South Carolina was different. “It wasn’t about the flash or the hype. It was about trust, family, and development. I believe in what they’re building.
Elite Talent with a National Reputation
Standing 6-foot-3 and already boasting a college-ready frame, the forward has been one of the most talked-about names in high school basketball over the past year. At Elite Sports Academy in Tacoma, he averaged 23.1 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game during his junior season, earning All-American honors and leading his team to a state semifinal appearance.
Scouts praise his physicality, high motor, and leadership qualities on and off the court. ESPN ranks him as the No. 3 forward in the nation and No. 7 overall in the 2025 class.
He’s a positionless threat who can guard multiple spots, finish through contact, and shoot the three at a high clip,” said one national recruiting analyst. “South Carolina is getting a potential game-changer.
Turning Point for South Carolina Basketball
The Gamecocks haven’t landed a recruit of this magnitude since the days of Sindarius Thornwell. But with Coach Paris entering his third season and coming off a promising campaign that saw significant progress in the SEC standings, momentum is clearly building in Columbia.
This is more than a commitment—it’s a statement,” said Coach Paris in a prepared release. “We’re building something strong here at South Carolina, and today’s news shows that elite talent is recognizing that.
Paris emphasized that the forward’s impact will go beyond the stat sheet. “He’s a leader, a worker, and a young man of great character. We’re excited for what the future holds.
A National Ripple Effect
The commitment also deals a blow to three other top-tier programs. LSU, Tennessee, and Texas had all made strong pushes in recent months, with visits, NIL offers, and pitches centered around early playing time and national exposure. In the end, though, South Carolina’s message of development, community, and family prevailed.
The announcement has already generated major buzz on social media, with Gamecock fans celebrating what many believe could be the first domino in a star-studded 2025 recruiting class.
Looking Ahead
The five-star forward plans to finish his senior year at Elite Sports Academy before enrolling at South Carolina in summer 2025. He’ll join a Gamecocks roster that is steadily rising in both talent and expectations—and hopes are high that he’ll help lead South Carolina to its first NCAA Tournament berth since 2017.
I’m locked in,” he said with a grin. “It’s time to bring something special to Columbia.
