Jerzy Robinson, the No. 5-ranked player in the girls’ SportsCenter NEXT 100 class of 2026, has committed to the University of South Carolina, a decision she announced on January 9, 2024. Her choice marks a significant moment for the Gamecocks, as Robinson is now the highest-rated recruit for head coach Dawn Staley in this class.
In her announcement, Robinson expressed a profound sense of peace regarding her decision. “I chose South Carolina because I had a sense of peace when it came down to the decision for me,” she shared with ESPN just before revealing her commitment on the program “NBA Today.” She emphasized that her faith played a crucial role in her recruitment process, stating, “I consulted the Lord. I sought him out, asked for direction and some guidance.”
Robinson’s Journey to Commitment
Robinson, a 6-foot-2 guard from Sierra Canyon High School in California, becomes an essential addition to a program that finished last season with a 12-1 record, winning the SEC Championship and reaching the NCAA Final Four. The Gamecocks boast the longest active win streak in Division I against unranked opponents, with an impressive 89-game streak. Staley has led the team to three NCAA championships since her hiring in 2008.
Robinson, who was the last five-star recruit in her class to make a commitment, visited South Carolina in late October. Before that, she had also explored opportunities at UConn and LSU. Reflecting on her visit, she noted, “When I visited South Carolina, I was already home. I was already valued there.”
At just 17 years old, Robinson’s journey has seen its share of challenges. Before her junior season, she experienced a drop in her ranking from No. 1 to No. 3, and eventually to No. 5. Despite these fluctuations, she remains steadfast, stating, “It’s not about a player dropping… Some of it is about a player rising,” referring to the growth of her peers.
On-Court Impact and Future Aspirations
Known for her physicality and scoring ability, Robinson is a formidable presence on the court. Shane Laflin, an ESPN women’s basketball recruiting analyst, praised her competitive nature and defensive skills, stating, “She is a confrontational defender and rebounds extremely well for her position.” After recovering from a leg injury, Robinson now serves as captain for her varsity team, aiming to finish her senior year with a championship title.
Robinson’s accomplishments extend beyond high school basketball. She has won three gold medals with Team USA, including one at the recent FIBA U19 World Cup in Brno, Czechia, where she averaged 7.7 points and 4 rebounds. Her dedication to the sport has led her to sign with Klutch Sports Group and secure a name, image, and likeness (NIL) deal with Nike, making her one of the first high school girls to receive such a significant endorsement.
Looking ahead, Robinson remains focused on her development as a player, stating, “The rankings drop was really just a number for me because whether it be number one, whether it be number three, whether it be number five, my identity isn’t tied to a ranking.” Her commitment to the South Carolina Gamecocks not only enriches the program but also reflects her personal journey and aspirations in the world of women’s basketball.
