Five-Star Forward Agot Makeer Reaffirms Commitment to South Carolina Despite Texas Push
In a major statement of loyalty and vision, Agot Makeer, the No. 4 overall prospect in the 2025 recruiting class, has reaffirmed her commitment to the South Carolina Gamecocks. Despite a strong late push from the University of Texas — including what sources describe as a “massive offer” — the five-star forward has chosen to remain loyal to the program she committed to on March 1st.
Makeer, a 6-foot-3 athletic powerhouse known for her versatility, length, and two-way dominance, had been the subject of intense recruitment even after her verbal pledge to South Carolina. The Texas Longhorns, led by head coach Vic Schaefer, reportedly made a significant effort to sway her commitment, seeing her as a potential cornerstone for their 2025 class. However, Makeer stood firm in her decision, emphasizing her trust in Dawn Staley and the vision she has for her development both on and off the court.
“I chose South Carolina for a reason,” Makeer said in a statement to ESPN. “Coach Staley has built a culture that’s about more than basketball — it’s about family, empowerment, and legacy. I’m all in.”
This is a massive retention win for South Carolina, which continues to dominate the recruiting landscape under Staley’s leadership. Over the past decade, Staley has turned the Gamecocks into a perennial national powerhouse, developing elite players and competing for championships annually. Makeer’s decision to remain committed speaks volumes not only about the strength of the program but also about the relationships and values that Staley instills in her players.
Makeer, originally from Nebraska and now starring at IMG Academy in Florida, has been a standout on the high school circuit. Her combination of size, mobility, and skill allows her to guard multiple positions, initiate offense in transition, and stretch the floor with a developing mid-range jumper. Scouts have praised her basketball IQ and relentless motor, noting that she plays with a maturity beyond her years. Her presence will be felt immediately in Columbia, where she’s expected to compete for major minutes as a freshman.
Recruiting analysts say this decision could have ripple effects across the 2025 class.
“Anytime you have a top-five prospect reaffirm her commitment in the face of major NIL and recruitment pressure, it sends a message,” said analyst Keira Watkins. “Makeer not only boosts South Carolina’s talent level, but she helps attract other elite players who want to compete and win at the highest level.”
Sources close to Makeer indicated that while NIL was discussed during her recruitment, it was never the primary driver in her decision-making process. “She’s focused on fit, coaching, and development,” one source said. “South Carolina offered her all of that from the start, and no amount of late pressure was going to change that.”
For Dawn Staley, retaining a player of Makeer’s caliber is another win in a string of recent recruiting triumphs. The Hall of Fame coach has emphasized loyalty, character, and development in her recruiting philosophy, and Makeer’s decision is a reflection of that approach.
With Makeer now locked in, South Carolina’s 2025 class continues to shape up as one of the best in the country. And for Makeer, the path ahead is clear — develop, compete, and add her name to the long list of elite talent that’s passed through Columbia.
“I’m excited to be a Gamecock,” Makeer added. “Let’s get to work.”
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