Former Tennessee Commit Oliviyah Edwards to Visit South Carolina Basketball

South Carolina women’s basketball is hosting five-star post prospect Oliviyah Edwards for a visit to the Columbia campus starting April 14, 2026. The Washington native is one of the most coveted players in the 2026 recruiting class and is currently exploring options after ending her commitment to Tennessee.

The visit follows a report from women’s basketball personality Skim Milkey on April 13, 2026, which Edwards later appeared to confirm on social media. The trip to South Carolina is the first of two high-profile visits scheduled for the athlete this week; she is also slated to visit Louisville on April 17, 2026.

Recruitment Background and Tennessee Departure

Edwards had previously signed a letter of intent to join the Tennessee Lady Volunteers. However, she recently backed out of that commitment and was granted a release from the program. This departure occurred as part of a larger exodus of current and future roster talent from the Tennessee program.

The dissolution of her commitment to Tennessee has reopened a recruitment process where South Carolina and LSU were previously considered top options. Because of this history, South Carolina has an existing relationship with the prospect. Edwards has previously visited the campus for both an official and an unofficial visit, establishing familiarity with the environment and the coaching staff led by Dawn Staley.

Player Profile and Athletic Capabilities

Standing 6-3, Edwards is described as a phenomenal athlete with the length to play larger than her actual height. Her game is characterized by speed and agility, including the ability to dunk with ease. She is recognized as a strong shot-blocker and rebounder.

In addition to her interior presence, Edwards has worked to expand her offensive repertoire. She has improved her jump shot, extending her effective range to 15 feet and occasionally hitting three-pointers.

South Carolina Roster Context

The pursuit of Edwards comes at a time when South Carolina is managing its post-player depth for the coming years. The program has two post players graduating who will not be on the 2026-2027 roster, with two more expected to graduate the following year.

While the Gamecocks have already signed post player Kelsi Andrews for the class of 2026, recruiters view Edwards as a different type of player. Andrews is currently in the process of rehabbing a knee injury.

In addition to South Carolina, both Louisville and Washington are involved in the recruitment of the five-star prospect.