The University of South Carolina’s women’s basketball program has firmly established itself as a powerhouse in developing top-tier talent for the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA).1 Over the past four WNBA drafts (2022-2025), no other college program can boast the sheer volume and high-level talent that the Gamecocks have produced, with a remarkable ten players selected. This consistent output underscores the program’s exceptional coaching, player development, and recruiting prowess under the leadership of Dawn Staley.
The 2022 WNBA Draft saw Destanni Henderson selected, marking the beginning of this impressive run. Henderson, a dynamic guard, brought her championship pedigree and playmaking abilities to the professional ranks.2
The 2023 draft was a banner year for South Carolina, featuring an astounding five draftees.3 Aliyah Boston, a dominant force in the paint and a consensus National Player of the Year, was chosen as the No. 1 overall pick, a testament to her collegiate achievements. She was joined by Zia Cooke, a prolific scorer and dynamic guard; Laeticia Amihere, a versatile forward with immense potential; Brea Beal, a strong and athletic wing; and Victaria Saxton, a tenacious post player. This quintet represented a significant portion of the draft class, highlighting the depth and quality of the Gamecocks’ roster.
In the 2024 WNBA Draft, Kamilla Cardoso continued the Gamecocks’ streak of producing elite talent.4 Cardoso, a towering center with exceptional rebounding and shot-blocking skills, was a highly sought-after prospect, further solidifying South Carolina’s reputation for developing impactful post players.5
The most recent 2025 WNBA Draft saw another three Gamecocks hear their names called.6 Te-Hina Paopao, a sharpshooting guard known for her offensive prowess and leadership, was selected early in the second round.7 She was quickly followed by Bree Hall, a versatile guard celebrated for her defensive tenacity and clutch shooting, and Sania Feagin, a powerful and athletic forward who blossomed in her senior year. This trio further cemented South Carolina’s position as the leading program in WNBA draft production over this four-year span.
The fact that ten players from South Carolina have been drafted in just four years speaks volumes about the program’s sustained excellence. These players have not only been drafted but have also been prepared to contribute at the highest level of professional basketball, showcasing the holistic development they received in Columbia.
While other programs like UConn and Tennessee have historically produced a high number of WNBA draft picks over the league’s history, South Carolina’s recent dominance in draft output is unparalleled. This achievement reflects Coach Staley’s ability to attract top talent, cultivate their skills, and prepare them for the rigors of the WNBA. The success of these draftees also serves as a powerful recruiting tool, attracting future generations of talented players to the South Carolina program with the aspiration of following in their footsteps.
In conclusion, South Carolina’s women’s basketball program stands alone as the most successful in producing WNBA talent over the last four drafts. With ten players selected between 2022 and 2025, the Gamecocks have not only showcased the exceptional quality of their players but have also solidified their status as the premier program in college women’s basketball for developing future WNBA stars.
