The South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball have made a major recruiting statement, landing elite five-star prospect Oliviyah Edwards after her high-profile split from Tennessee Lady Volunteers basketball.
Edwards, widely regarded as one of the top players in the 2026 recruiting class, officially committed to South Carolina on Thursday, giving head coach Dawn Staley yet another elite addition to an already loaded roster. The 6-foot-3 forward had previously signed with Tennessee but requested a release from her National Letter of Intent earlier this month amid significant roster and staff changes within the program.
Her decision comes after a whirlwind recruitment reopening that included visits to powerhouse programs such as Texas and South Carolina. Ultimately, Edwards chose the Gamecocks, citing comfort and fit as key factors in her commitment.
Ranked among the top three to five players nationally depending on the service, Edwards brings a versatile skill set defined by size, athleticism, and two-way impact. She had originally picked Tennessee over several top programs—including South Carolina—before reopening her recruitment, making this commitment something of a full-circle moment.
For South Carolina, the addition reinforces its dominance on the recruiting trail and signals continued intent to compete for national championships. The Gamecocks, who have remained a consistent powerhouse under Staley, are reloading with elite talent as they look ahead to the 2026–27 season.
Meanwhile, Tennessee’s loss of Edwards underscores a turbulent offseason marked by transfers, coaching changes, and roster uncertainty—factors that played a role in her departure.
With Edwards now in Columbia, South Carolina adds another cornerstone piece, and the balance of power in women’s college basketball continues to tilt toward the Gamecocks.