Dawn Staley’s dynasty at the University of South Carolina continues to solidify its impenetrable reign over women’s college basketball. In a recruiting coup that reverberated across the nation, the highly coveted, consensus top recruit in the Class of 2026, Oliviyah Edwards, has made her much-anticipated commitment, pledging to join the Gamecocks. This monumental decision, announced on June 18, 2025, sees Edwards turn down formidable programs like BYU and Nebraska, opting instead for the established excellence and undeniable legacy that Staley has meticulously built in Columbia.
Edwards’ decision is a testament to the enduring power of Dawn Staley’s program. For years, South Carolina has not just been winning national championships – they’ve been doing it with an unparalleled blend of elite talent, cohesive team play, and a palpable sense of family culture. This latest commitment underscores that Staley’s formula for success, which includes nurturing both on-court brilliance and off-court character, remains the gold standard in women’s college basketball.
Oliviyah Edwards, a 6-foot-3 five-star forward from Tacoma, Washington, has been atop recruiting boards for months. Her versatility, athleticism, and polished game make her a generational talent, capable of impacting the game at both ends of the floor. She possesses an innate ability to score in the paint, rebound ferociously, and defend multiple positions, qualities that are perfectly suited for Staley’s system. Her decision was highly anticipated, with many pundits speculating on which powerhouse program would ultimately land her. BYU and Nebraska, both programs on the rise and eager to make a splash in the recruiting landscape, made strong pushes, highlighting their unique offerings and pathways to immediate impact. However, in the end, Staley’s proven track record, along with the undeniable allure of the South Carolina dynasty, proved irresistible.
This commitment follows closely on the heels of other significant recruiting wins for Staley and the Gamecocks. In the 2025 class, South Carolina had already secured the commitments of Agot Makeer, a 6-foot-1 wing ranked No. 4 nationally by ESPN, and Ayla McDowell, a 6-foot-2 forward ranked in the top 25. While South Carolina missed out on the nation’s No. 1 recruit in the 2025 class, Aaliyah Chavez (who chose Oklahoma), the addition of Makeer, McDowell, and now Edwards for 2026 demonstrates Staley’s consistent ability to attract and secure top-tier talent year after year. The sheer volume of McDonald’s All-Americans on the South Carolina roster has been a consistent theme, with LSU coach Kim Mulkey once remarking, “I don’t think I’ve ever coached against a team with 10 McDonald’s All-Americans on the roster,” a sentiment that only reinforces the caliber of talent Staley brings in.
Edwards herself has reportedly been familiar with the South Carolina program for some time, having visited the campus in January ahead of a crucial Gamecocks game against LSU. Her presence at practice during that visit would have provided a firsthand look at the intensity, camaraderie, and detailed coaching that define Staley’s practices. This immersive experience, combined with the energy of a sold-out Gamecock arena, undoubtedly left a lasting impression. When asked about her decision, sources close to Edwards indicated that Staley’s consistent message of truth, even when it might be difficult, resonated deeply. “It’s important to hear the truth from the head coach – even if it’s not positive,” one source relayed, paraphrasing Edwards’ sentiments. “I really appreciated her believing in me and thinking that I can have an impact right away at South Carolina. It meant a lot to me.”1 This emphasis on authenticity and direct communication has long been a hallmark of Staley’s recruiting approach.
The appeal of playing for Dawn Staley extends beyond just winning. Players consistently speak of the family environment she fosters, the genuine care she shows for her athletes, and her commitment to their holistic development, both as basketball players and as young women. The opportunity to learn from a Hall of Fame point guard and a multiple-time national championship-winning coach is an unparalleled draw for aspiring professional athletes. The pipeline of South Carolina players making it to the WNBA is robust, showcasing Staley’s ability to prepare her athletes for the next level. This legacy, coupled with the fervent support of the Gamecock fan base – known for their passionate crowds and the unique “rat” tradition – creates an atmosphere that is difficult for rival programs to replicate.
For BYU and Nebraska, missing out on Edwards is a tough blow, but not entirely unexpected given the juggernaut that is South Carolina. BYU, under new head coach Lee Cummard, has been actively working to build its roster, securing commitments from promising freshmen like Olivia Hamlin and international talents such as Yussuf Bolanle. Nebraska, too, has been making strides in recruiting, aiming to elevate its program in the highly competitive Big Ten. Both schools undoubtedly highlighted the chance for Edwards to be an immediate focal point and potentially lead their programs to new heights. However, the lure of joining an already established winner, with a clear path to national championships and WNBA readiness, ultimately proved more compelling for a player of Edwards’ caliber.
The commitment of Oliviyah Edwards signals that Dawn Staley’s reign is not just ongoing, but strengthening. As the landscape of college athletics continues to evolve with NIL and direct player compensation, South Carolina’s ability to consistently attract top-tier talent like Edwards demonstrates that their winning culture, player development, and the unique allure of Dawn Staley herself remain powerful magnets. The “birdie” has indeed flown into the nest, ensuring that the South Carolina women’s basketball dynasty will continue to soar for years to come.
