Four Gamecocks Earn All-America Status
In a remarkable display of talent and excellence, four members of the South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball team have earned All-America honors for the 2024-2025 season. This achievement marks a significant milestone for the program, which has continued to assert its dominance in collegiate basketball under head coach Dawn Staley. The four athletes recognized with All-America honors have proven to be invaluable assets to the team, combining individual brilliance with a shared commitment to success.
Leading the charge is senior forward Aliyah Boston, whose impact on the court has been nothing short of extraordinary. Boston, already a two-time NCAA champion and a multiple-time All-American, once again cemented her legacy as one of the top players in the nation. Throughout the season, she demonstrated an exceptional ability to dominate both ends of the floor, providing a scoring and rebounding presence that was nearly unmatched in college basketball. Boston’s athleticism, basketball IQ, and leadership have been key to the Gamecocks’ success, and her All-America selection further solidifies her place among the elite players in the game.
Joining Boston is sophomore forward Kamilla Cardoso, who has quickly emerged as one of the most dominant bigs in the country. Cardoso, a transfer from Syracuse, brought a new level of physicality and skill to the Gamecocks’ frontcourt this season. Standing at 6-foot-7, she uses her size to control the paint, while also showcasing a refined offensive game that includes a soft touch around the basket and the ability to stretch the floor. Cardoso’s selection to the All-America team highlights her rapid development and significant contributions to the Gamecocks’ success on both offense and defense.
Alongside these two standouts is guard Zia Cooke, a player who has been a vital part of the Gamecocks’ backcourt for several years. Known for her quickness, agility, and scoring ability, Cooke has continued to evolve into one of the best guards in the nation. Whether it’s hitting clutch shots, facilitating the offense, or playing tough defense, Cooke has proven herself to be an all-around player. Her All-America recognition is a testament to her relentless work ethic and the impact she has on every game, often providing the Gamecocks with a spark when they need it most.
The fourth Gamecock to earn All-America honors is forward Laeticia Amihere, a versatile player whose defensive prowess and ability to contribute offensively have been critical to the team’s success. Amihere’s athleticism and ability to guard multiple positions make her a matchup nightmare for opponents, while her offensive game continues to grow. Her selection as an All-American is a reflection of her hard work and development, as she continues to make significant strides in her role with the team.
These four players have been integral to the Gamecocks’ rise to prominence in women’s college basketball. Their recognition as All-Americans speaks to the strength of the South Carolina program, which has become a perennial contender on the national stage. Under the leadership of Coach Staley, South Carolina has continued to attract top talent and develop its players into some of the best in the country. The accomplishments of these four players serve as a testament to the program’s commitment to excellence, and their individual successes are a reflection of the team-oriented culture that has defined South Carolina women’s basketball.
As the Gamecocks look to the remainder of the 2024-2025 season, the leadership and talent of these four All-Americans will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in the team’s quest for another NCAA championship.