In a historic night for the University of South Carolina women’s basketball program, three former Gamecocks were selected in the 2025 WNBA Draft, marking a significant milestone in the team’s legacy. This achievement underscores the program’s commitment to developing elite talent and its growing influence on the professional women’s basketball landscape.
**Aliyah Boston – No. 1 Overall Pick by the Indiana Fever**
Aliyah Boston’s selection as the first overall pick by the Indiana Fever was a culmination of her exceptional collegiate career. Standing at 6-foot-5, Boston was a dominant force in the paint, known for her scoring ability and defensive prowess. Throughout her tenure at South Carolina, she faced intense defensive schemes, including teams like Georgia employing quadruple-team tactics to contain her. Despite these challenges, Boston’s performance remained stellar, solidifying her status as the top prospect in the draft. Her selection not only highlights her individual talents but also reflects the program’s success in nurturing players capable of making an immediate impact in the WNBA.
**Zia Cooke – No. 10 Pick by the Los Angeles Sparks**
Zia Cooke’s selection by the Los Angeles Sparks at the 10th overall pick was a testament to her scoring versatility and defensive capabilities. A high-volume shooter, Cooke demonstrated her adaptability by effectively driving to the basket when her outside shots weren’t falling. Her defensive skills were particularly evident during the NCAA tournament, where she played a crucial role in limiting opponents’ key players, such as holding UCLA’s Kiki Rice to a mere five points on 1-of-5 shooting. Cooke’s ability to contribute both offensively and defensively makes her a valuable asset to the Sparks as they look to strengthen their roster.
**Bree Hall – No. 20 Pick by the Indiana Fever**
Bree Hall’s selection as the 20th overall pick by the Indiana Fever marked another significant achievement for South Carolina. A versatile guard, Hall’s journey from a McDonald’s All-American in high school to a key contributor at South Carolina exemplifies her growth and potential. Her defensive acumen and ability to perform under pressure were instrumental in the Gamecocks’ success during her tenure. Joining Boston in Indiana, Hall has the opportunity to further develop her skills alongside another former Gamecock, Destanni Henderson, fostering a strong South Carolina presence on the Fever roster.
**Program Legacy and Future Outlook**
The selection of three Gamecocks in the 2025 WNBA Draft underscores the sustained excellence of South Carolina’s women’s basketball program. This achievement not only highlights the individual talents of Boston, Cooke, and Hall but also reflects the program’s commitment to developing players who can succeed at the professional level. As these athletes embark on their WNBA careers, they carry with them the legacy of a program that has consistently produced top-tier talent, setting the stage for future Gamecocks to follow in their footsteps.
In conclusion, the 2025 WNBA Draft was a landmark event for the University of South Carolina, showcasing the program’s ability to produce elite athletes ready to make their mark on the professional stage. With players like Aliyah Boston, Zia Cooke, and Bree Hall entering the WNBA, the Gamecocks’ influence on women’s basketball continues to grow, promising a bright future for both the program and its players.
