Could Dawn Staley-led South Carolina land No. 1 recruit Aaliyah Chavez? Here’s why

With LSU out of the running, the final five schools are scrambling to recruit No. 1-ranked Aaliyah Chavez. The final five schools are Texas, Texas Tech, Oklahoma, UCLA and South Carolina. While the favorites seem to be Texas Tech, UCLA and Oklahoma, Dawn Staley's South Carolina also has a big chance.

South Carolina has one of the country's top women's basketball programs. As such, the reigning national champion has several wealthy backers. This is important as reports indicate that Chavez wants an NIL deal worth $1 million.

That asking price is reportedly why Kim Mulkey and the LSU Tigers took themselves out of contention for the top prospect in the 2025 class. Plus, LSU already signed four five-stars for next season. As for South Carolina, the school may be able to provide that amount and would allow her to grow her brand while studying and playing there.

Another reason why Chavez might pick South Carolina is because of its winning legacy, as winning teams often get more spotlight and if she wants to grow her brand, South Carolina might be the school to be.

The Gamecocks are a perennial powerhouse. This season, they are ranked No. 2. and are favored to reach the Final Four and possibly repeat as NCAA champions.

Choosing South Carolina would also mean that she would be playing for one of the best all-around coaching staffs under women's basketball legend Dawn Staley. She's a three-time Olympic gold medalist and six-time WNBA All-Star. As a coach, she has already won three NCAA titles and eight Southeastern Conference championships and has also coached USA Basketball to Olympic gold.

Of the five schools in her final list, South Carolina is the only school she has not officially visited yet. This has placed the school at the bottom of the predictions, but surprises can still happen, as Dawn Staley has been aggressive in trying to recruit Aaliyah Chavez, even personally watching her games.

The chances of the other schools recruiting Aaliyah Chavez

While the argument for South Carolina is compelling, other big schools such as Texas and Oklahoma can say the same if Aaliyah Chavez wants money, as both schools have dedicated fanbases. The schools are also close to where she lives in Monterrey, Texas, which is a big plus for her. The schools have also been aggressive in her recruitment and have rolled out the red carpet for her.

As for UCLA, Chavez was impressed during her first official visit there and is considered one of the favorites. Meanwhile, her hometown team, Texas Tech, is close to her heart, impressing her with its facilities and coaching staff. Should she go there, the school is willing to make a team around her.