Massive Wins: Five-Star Sophomore Nyla Harris Commits to South Carolina Gamecocks.

Massive Wins: Five-Star Sophomore Nyla Harris Commits to South Carolina Gamecocks.

 

In a major recruiting victory, the South Carolina Gamecocks have secured a commitment from five-star phenom Nyla Harris, the No. 34 overall prospect in ESPN’s 2026 rankings. The elite sophomore guard chose Dawn Staley’s powerhouse program over strong pushes from Louisville, Tennessee, and BYU.

 

Hailing from a basketball-rich background, Harris has been on the national radar since middle school. Known for her explosive first step, court vision, and lockdown defense, she’s the type of all-around player that fits perfectly into South Carolina’s tenacious, fast-paced system. The 5’11” standout has already drawn comparisons to former Gamecocks greats for her leadership and competitive fire.

 

“Coach Staley believed in me from the start,” Harris shared in her commitment announcement. “South Carolina felt like home — the culture, the fans, and the opportunity to grow on and off the court made this an easy choice.”

 

This commitment adds to the Gamecocks’ growing momentum in the 2026 class, as they continue to reload rather than rebuild following their dominant recent seasons. Harris’ decision also delivers a blow to regional rivals Louisville and Tennessee, both of whom were considered strong contenders in her recruitment.

 

For South Carolina, landing Harris is about more than just talent — it’s about maintaining a winning culture built on trust, development, and championships. With Harris on board, the Gamecocks are once again signaling that the future of women’s college basketball still runs through Columbia.

 

With two more seasons of high school ball ahead, Harris will only continue to elevate her game. But for now, her commitment marks one of the biggest wins of the 2026 cycle — and one that could pay off in March for years to come.