Five-Star Ayla McDowell Commits to South Carolina Women's Basketball

There is no stopping Dawn Staley and the South Carolina Gamecocks Women's Basketball squad from adding talent to an already impressive team. The last star recruit to join the Gamecocks in the class of 2025 is the five-star forward Ayla McDowell.

McDowell is a 6-2 wing. Her midrange jump shot is nice, and she finishes well at the rim, but her three-point shooting needs to be improved. McDowell's size and athleticism make her an excellent defender. McDowell competed internationally for Brazil and showed well at the U18 AmeriCup over the summer. She averaged 14.8 points and 7.7 rebounds and finished as the second-leading scorer and ninth-leading rebounder in the tournament. 

The all-around power forward from Cy Springs High in Cypress, TX is the first commitment of the Gamecocks' 2025 class. McDowell announced her college decision at Cy Springs choosing South Carolina over TCU, LSU, Florida, Georgia Tech, and Mississippi State.

 Her commitment is a significant boost for South Carolina, as it continues to solidify their status as a powerhouse in women's college basketball. Adding a player of McDowell's caliber ensures the team remains competitive on both ends of the court. Her international experience and versatility make her a valuable asset, capable of contributing immediately upon her arrival.