Five-star, 6-foot-3 forward Oliviyah Edwards, the No. 3 recruit in the Class of 2026, committed to South Carolina on April 23, 2026, after visiting South Carolina, Texas, and Louisville and previously signing with Tennessee.

Edwards chose South Carolina over USC, Tennessee, and LSU, hailing from Elite Sports Academy in Tacoma, Washington.

Coach Dawn Staley welcomed the commitment, underscoring South Carolina’s ongoing pursuit of national championships and its strategy of recruiting elite talent.

NIL branding remains nuanced: athletes can promote personal sponsors outside team activities, but cannot wear sponsor gear during games or official programs if it conflicts with the school’s apparel contract.

South Carolina’s roster for next season is projected to include 14 players, with Edwards and guard Jordan Lee joining in the spring, Ashlyn Watkins returning, and limited room for additional additions due to depth and enrollment timing.

Tennessee’s program continues to face challenges in elevating to the level of national contenders like South Carolina despite a strong offseason.

Staley aims for a national title run next season, with Edwards potentially forming a formidable frontcourt duo that could be difficult for opponents to handle.

Edwards’ commitment signals South Carolina’s continued dominance in women’s college basketball, while Tennessee rebuilds to compete with power programs.

Edwards previously played for the Northwest Greyhounds in the Adidas 3SSB circuit, averaging 17.0 points and 7.8 rebounds per game.

Edwards’ arrival strengthens USC’s frontline as it builds around returning All-American Joyce Edwards and players like Chloe Kitts and Ashlyn Watkins, with Alicia Tournebize also in the mix.

South Carolina’s roster additions include guard Jerzy Robinson and transfer Jordan Lee from Texas, while departures like Raven Johnson and Madina Okot reshape guard depth.

Raven Johnson’s departure to the WNBA Draft is part of looming roster adjustments as South Carolina prepares for the next season.