South Carolina Basketball: Gamecocks have 5-star visiting this weekend

South Carolina basketball coach Lamont Paris has put in work on the recruiting trail since arriving in Columbia. In addition to securing a late class of 2022 commitment from GG Jackson right after getting the job and picking up a pledge from top-100 player Collin Murray-Boyles in last year’s class, Paris has the Gamecocks “in the game” with some of the best players across the nation.

In the class of 2024, South Carolina basketball has already picked up two commitments. Elite outside shooter Trent Noah is a 6’6″ wing who would fit on any roster in America, and versatile 6’9″ forward Okku Federiko has a very high ceiling as a player.

Looking ahead to the future, the ’25 cycle already has its first commitment (4-star forward Hayden Assemian), and the class is loaded with blue chip talent that is interested in the South Carolina basketball program.  4-star guard Eli Ellis and 5-star wing Sadiq White have visited the program, and 5-star guard Darryn Peterson has expressed some interest, as well.

On Friday, another big-time prospect has been linked to the Gamecocks. According to a report from TheBigSpur’s John Whittle, Lamont Paris and USC are welcoming 5-star wing Jamier Jones to campus this weekend for a visit.

Based out of Orlando, Florida, Jones resembles a full-grown man but is somehow a high school junior. At 6’6″ and 210 pounds, he is an elite athlete who has played anywhere off-the-ball (other than center). Primarily used as a shooting guard and small forward, Jones is strong enough to play the 4-spot in certain situations, as well.

In recent months, Jones has picked up offers from virtually every program in the country, and there is no wonder why he is gaining so much attention. He is one of the best leapers in the class, and he has enough ballhandling skills to get into the lane at any time. When he does, you better watch out because Jamier Jones is looking to throw it down.

At this point in Jones’ recruitment, it is far too early to determine which programs are leading the charge, but South Carolina basketball fans should be glad to be in the running for the elite prospect.