The South Carolina men’s basketball program is on the verge of significant changes as the offseason approaches. After a season filled with highs and lows, the Gamecocks are preparing for an important period of roster adjustments, transfers, and potential incoming talent. Head coach Lamont Paris and his staff are evaluating their next steps to build a team that can compete at a higher level in the SEC and beyond.
With the rise of the transfer portal, evolving NIL opportunities, and high school recruiting becoming more competitive than ever, the question is: How much roster shakeup will South Carolina experience this offseason?
Potential Departures: Who Could Be Leaving?
Like most programs, South Carolina is expected to experience some level of turnover, with a mix of graduations, potential NBA Draft entrants, and transfer portal movement.
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Graduating Players
The Gamecocks will say goodbye to several key veterans who have been instrumental in the team’s success. Meechie Johnson, one of the program’s most productive scorers, has NBA aspirations and could test the professional waters. If he decides to return for another season, it would be a massive boost for South Carolina.Other seniors who have played a major role in the team’s development will have decisions to make as well, whether it’s pursuing professional careers or taking advantage of an additional year of eligibility due to COVID-19 exceptions.
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Potential Transfers Out
The reality of modern college basketball is that roster turnover via the transfer portal is inevitable. Players seeking increased playing time, different coaching styles, or simply looking for a fresh start may enter the portal.Last season, South Carolina saw multiple transfers leave the program, and it wouldn’t be a surprise if a few players decided to explore their options elsewhere. Role players who didn’t receive much playing time may seek new opportunities, while others may be encouraged to transfer as the coaching staff looks to upgrade certain positions.
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NBA and Professional Opportunities
While South Carolina hasn’t had a one-and-done NBA prospect in recent years, players like Johnson could garner NBA or overseas interest. The program has produced professional-level talent before, and if any Gamecocks declare for the draft, it would further impact next season’s roster composition.
Who’s Coming In? South Carolina’s 2024 Recruiting Class & Potential Transfers
The good news for South Carolina fans is that Lamont Paris has been active on the recruiting trail and in the transfer portal. The Gamecocks have already secured some promising talent, but they are far from done when it comes to building next season’s roster.
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Incoming Freshmen
South Carolina has been targeting several high-profile recruits in the 2024 and 2025 classes. While the team hasn’t landed a five-star prospect just yet, they have made strides in recruiting, signing key pieces that fit their system and style of play.If the Gamecocks can bring in a highly touted freshman or two, it could add much-needed depth and skill to the team.
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Transfer Portal Additions
The transfer portal has become the quickest way to reshape a college basketball team, and South Carolina will be looking to take full advantage.Expect Paris and his staff to pursue experienced guards, versatile forwards, and sharpshooters who can elevate the Gamecocks in SEC competition. Last offseason, the program brought in impactful transfers, and they’ll aim to do the same this time around.
Possible areas of focus in the portal:
- A scoring guard to complement Meechie Johnson (if he returns)
- A physical post player who can rebound and defend
- A knockdown shooter to help space the floor
Can South Carolina Take the Next Step?
The Gamecocks showed flashes of potential this past season, competing in the ultra-competitive SEC and pulling off some impressive wins. However, for South Carolina to take the next step and become a true conference contender, they’ll need to make smart roster moves.
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Building a More Balanced Roster
One of South Carolina’s biggest issues has been depth and consistency. If they can bring in impact players who fill key roles, they’ll be much more dangerous in SEC play. -
Developing the Current Talent
It’s not just about who the Gamecocks bring in—it’s also about developing the players who stay. If key returners like Collin Murray-Boyles and Zachary Davis take another step forward, South Carolina will be in much better shape next season. -
Winning in the Transfer Portal
Programs that thrive in today’s college basketball world are the ones that master the transfer portal. If South Carolina can land experienced, high-impact players, they could quickly transform into a top-tier SEC program.
Final Thoughts: How Much Shakeup Should We Expect?
While no program undergoes a complete roster overhaul, South Carolina is poised for significant changes. Some players will graduate, others may transfer out, and the Gamecocks will bring in new talent to fill those gaps.
How much of a shakeup should fans expect? A moderate-to-high level of turnover, with at least a few key additions and some notable departures. However, if Lamont Paris and his staff make the right moves, South Carolina could position itself as an emerging force in the SEC for years to come.
One thing is clear: change is coming, and Gamecock fans should brace themselves for an eventful offseason.