The recruiting race for Oliviyah Edwards one of the most electrifying young talents in women’s basketball is heating up, with coaching heavyweights Dawn Staley and Kim Mulkey still firmly in contention. Edwards, ESPN’s No. 2 prospect in the 2026 class, has revealed her list of finalists and a decision timeline, keeping South Carolina and LSU in the hunt.
The 6-foot-3 power forward from Tacoma, Washington, told Yahoo Sports she is down to six schools: USC, South Carolina, Tennessee, LSU, Washington, and Florida. While she admits she’s leaning toward one program, she plans to complete her official visits before making her choice in November 2025. “I’m going to keep an open mindset, and then after that, I’m going to make my decision, and that’ll be that,” she said.
For elite programs like South Carolina and LSU, this is a pivotal point in the recruiting cycle a fight for a player who could become the next face of the women’s game.
Already a viral sensation for her rare dunking ability, Edwards has impressed beyond the highlights. She dominates in transition, powers through the paint, cleans the glass with authority, and has recently added a reliable mid-range jumper, making her one of the most complete frontcourt prospects in the country.
Staley’s Gamecocks are known for their championship consistency, anchored by suffocating defense and balanced offense, while Mulkey’s Tigers thrive on speed, flair, and explosive scoring. Landing Edwards would be a major coup for either, as her rim protection, floor-stretching ability, and above-the-rim finishing could transform a roster overnight.
After cutting notable programs like Notre Dame, Duke, Florida State, and North Carolina, Edwards is locked in on visits to her remaining contenders. With her athleticism, skill, and star power, she’s expected to make an immediate college impact and eventually become a force in the WNBA bringing dunks, dominance, and highlights wherever she plays.
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