In a significant development for women’s college basketball, 5-star small forward Agot Makeer has committed to the University of South Carolina. Makeer, a 6-foot-1 standout originally from Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada, currently plays for Montverde Academy in Florida. She chose the Gamecocks over other prestigious programs, including the University of Connecticut (UConn) and Michigan State University.
Makeer’s decision to join South Carolina is a testament to the program’s growing prominence under head coach Dawn Staley. Staley, a Hall of Famer and former Olympian, has transformed the Gamecocks into a powerhouse, securing multiple national championships and consistently attracting top-tier talent. Makeer’s commitment further solidifies South Carolina’s status as a dominant force in women’s basketball.
Player Profile: Agot Makeer
Ranked as the No. 4 overall recruit in the class of 2025, Makeer brings a versatile skill set to the court. Her ability to play both guard and forward positions makes her a valuable asset for the Gamecocks. Known for her competitiveness and exceptional work ethic, Makeer has distinguished herself among her peers. In a previous interview, she stated, “I’m a very competitive person. My work ethic isn’t like a lot of the other girls in my class, and I feel like that puts me ahead sometimes. I’m versatile in a way that my body is different; I can get to the rim and score from the perimeter
During her tenure at Montverde Academy, Makeer has showcased her scoring ability, defensive prowess, and leadership qualities. Her performance has not only earned her a top-five national ranking but also a spot in the 2025 McDonald’s All-American Game, where she will represent the East team.
Recruitment Journey
Makeer’s recruitment process was highly competitive, reflecting her elite status in the 2025 class. Initially, she narrowed her choices to six schools: South Carolina, UConn, Michigan State, Duke, Kentucky, and North Carolina. She later focused on her final threeāSouth Carolina, UConn, and Michigan Stateābefore announcing her commitment to the Gamecocks
Her relationship with Coach Staley played a pivotal role in her decision. Makeer expressed admiration for Staley’s commitment to empowering Black women and fostering a supportive environment. “I have a pretty good relationship with Coach Staley. It’s one of the powerhouses of women’s basketball like UConn. It’s really cool to be recruited by them, and I love what they do there for Black women, especially,” Makeer noted.
Impact on South Carolina’s Program
Makeer’s commitment is a significant boost for South Carolina’s 2025 recruiting class. She joins fellow 5-star recruit Ayla McDowell, a wing from Cypress, Texas, who committed to the Gamecocks in October 2024. Both players were named 2025 McDonald’s All-Americans, underscoring the caliber of talent joining the program.
The addition of Makeer and McDowell addresses key positional needs for the Gamecocks, especially with the anticipated graduation of several seniors and draft-eligible juniors. Makeer’s versatility allows her to contribute in multiple roles, providing Coach Staley with strategic flexibility. Her scoring ability, defensive skills, and leadership potential are expected to make an immediate impact as South Carolina aims to maintain its competitive edge in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and on the national stage.
Looking Ahead
As Makeer transitions to the collegiate level, expectations are high for her to continue her trajectory of excellence. Her commitment not only enhances South Carolina’s roster but also serves as an inspiration for aspiring basketball players from diverse backgrounds. The Gamecocks’ ability to attract top international talent like Makeer reflects the program’s inclusive culture and global appeal.
In conclusion, Agot Makeer’s decision to commit to the University of South Carolina marks a significant milestone in her basketball career and represents a strategic win for the Gamecocks. Her arrival is eagerly anticipated by fans and analysts alike, as she is poised to contribute to the sustained success of South Carolina women’s basketball.