BREAKING: No. 1 Five-Star SG Aaliyah Chavez Commits to South Carolina

Gamecocks Land Nation’s Top Shooting Guard Over Tennessee and Alabama

In a massive win for Dawn Staley and the South Carolina Gamecocks, Aaliyah Chavez, the No. 1 shooting guard in the 2025 recruiting class, has officially committed to South Carolina women’s basketball. Chavez, a five-star prospect, chose the Gamecocks over Tennessee and Alabama, further strengthening South Carolina’s already dominant program.

“South Carolina is the perfect fit for me,” Chavez said. “The culture, the coaching staff, the fans—it just felt like home. Coach Staley knows how to develop guards, and I want to be part of something special.”

Chavez’s commitment solidifies South Carolina’s position as a powerhouse in women’s college basketball and gives the Gamecocks yet another elite talent who could make an immediate impact at the next level.

Who is Aaliyah Chavez?

A Scoring Machine

Hailing from Lubbock, Texas, Aaliyah Chavez is widely regarded as the best pure scorer in high school basketball. At 5-foot-9, she combines elite shooting ability, explosive athleticism, and high basketball IQ, making her a nightmare for defenders.

• 2023-24 High School Stats: Averaging 30+ points per game
• Strengths: Deep shooting range, quick first step, elite ball handling
• Comparison: She’s been compared to Kelsey Plum and Caitlin Clark, with her ability to shoot from anywhere on the court

Her offensive prowess isn’t the only reason top programs fought for her commitment—she’s also a high-level defender and an excellent playmaker, making her a complete two-way player.

Why Chavez Chose South Carolina Over Tennessee & Alabama

1. Dawn Staley’s Track Record

One of the biggest factors in Chavez’s decision was South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley. Over the past decade, Staley has built one of the most dominant programs in women’s basketball, consistently producing WNBA talent and competing for national championships.

“Coach Staley knows what it takes to develop guards at the highest level,” Chavez said. “She’s been where I want to go.”

Staley’s ability to mentor and develop elite guards, such as Zia Cooke, Tyasha Harris, and Allisha Gray, was a major selling point for Chavez.

2. Championship Culture

South Carolina is coming off multiple Final Four appearances and a national championship, and the program remains at the top of the NCAA rankings.

Chavez wanted to play for a team that could consistently compete for national titles, and South Carolina provided the best opportunity to win immediately.

“I want to be on the biggest stage and compete for championships,” Chavez said. “South Carolina gives me that chance.”

3. Defensive Identity

Unlike some other top recruits, Chavez isn’t just an offensive juggernaut—she takes pride in her defense. South Carolina’s reputation for elite defense under Staley was another factor that set them apart from Tennessee and Alabama.

What This Means for South Carolina Women’s Basketball

Adding Aaliyah Chavez to an already loaded roster is a huge boost for South Carolina.

• Immediate Impact: Chavez could step in as a day-one starter, providing elite scoring and perimeter defense.
• Elite Backcourt: Paired with other top recruits and returners, South Carolina’s guard play will be one of the best in the country.
• WNBA Pipeline: Chavez has aspirations to be a top WNBA Draft pick, and South Carolina’s track record of producing first-round talent gives her a clear path.

Dawn Staley’s Reaction

Coach Staley wasted no time expressing her excitement about landing the top-ranked shooting guard in the nation.

“Aaliyah is a GAME-CHANGER,” Staley said. “She brings everything we look for in a South Carolina player—toughness, scoring ability, defensive intensity, and a winning mindset. She’s going to be special.”

With Chavez’s commitment, South Carolina’s 2025 recruiting class is shaping up to be one of the best in the country, further cementing the Gamecocks as a dynasty in women’s basketball.

What’s Next for Tennessee and Alabama?

Tennessee:

The Lady Vols were in the final three for Chavez and were hoping to add her to their storied program. Despite missing out on the five-star guard, Tennessee still has a strong recruiting class and will likely pivot to other top prospects.

Alabama:

The Crimson Tide have been making strides in recruiting under head coach Kristy Curry, but losing Chavez is a big blow. Alabama will need to look for another dynamic scorer to add to its backcourt.

Final Thoughts: South Carolina Just Got Even Stronger

Landing Aaliyah Chavez is a monumental win for South Carolina women’s basketball. She brings:

✅ Elite Scoring
✅ Strong Defense
✅ Championship Mindset

Her commitment ensures that Dawn Staley and the Gamecocks will continue to dominate the college basketball landscape for years to come.

Chavez is ready for the bright lights of Columbia, and South Carolina fans should be thrilled—they just landed the best shooting guard in the country.