South Carolina Basketball Coach Dawn Staley Makes Final Cut for 5-Star Recruit Zakiyah Johnson

South Carolina basketball coach Dawn Staley is making waves in the recruiting world, with nearly every player in the top-10 of the class of 2025 rankings connected to her program. One standout talent is Zakiyah Johnson, a 6’1″ wing from Shelbyville, Kentucky.

Initially considering 12 schools, Johnson has now narrowed her list down to 6 finalists, with the South Carolina Gamecocks securing a spot once again. The other contenders include LSU, Kentucky, Louisville, Notre Dame, and Southern Cal.

Known for her fearless scoring ability, Johnson has the versatility to play multiple positions on the court, from shooting guard to power forward. Her aggressive style of play and comfortable shooting range make her a formidable force on offense, while her long arms and defensive prowess set her apart on the other end of the court.

With her hometown just an hour away from Louisville and Lexington, Johnson’s decision will surely be closely watched by fans and recruiters alike. Stay tuned as this talented prospect navigates the next steps in her basketball journey.