South Carolina vs. LSU: Five-Star Post Zaniya Johnson Narrows Her Choices to Two

South Carolina women’s basketball is in the final race for one of the top frontcourt prospects in the 2027 recruiting class.

Five-star post player Zaniya Johnson has narrowed her college choices to South Carolina and LSU, bringing her recruitment closer to a decision.

The 6-foot-4 prospect from Biloxi, Mississippi, has eliminated Florida State, Texas A&M and Mississippi State.

Johnson has not announced an official commitment date, but she has indicated on social media that her decision is coming soon.

Why Zaniya Johnson Is a Major Recruiting Target

Johnson has the size and production to become an important addition to a college frontcourt.

Last season, she averaged 14.4 points, 7.6 rebounds and 1.8 blocks per game.

Her résumé also includes surpassing 1,000 career points as a sophomore and 1,000 career rebounds as a junior.

She is ranked No. 17 nationally in the Rivals Industry rankings and No. 18 overall by ESPN, making her one of the highest-rated post players in the 2027 class.

For Dawn Staley and South Carolina, landing Johnson could mean adding another talented interior player capable of contributing as a rebounder, rim protector and scorer around the basket.

South Carolina Has Other Major Recruiting Targets

Johnson is not the only highly rated prospect South Carolina is pursuing in the 2027 class.

The Gamecocks already have a commitment from point guard Taylor Brown.

They are also pursuing five-star guard Jezelle “GG” Banks, who has South Carolina, LSU and Texas among her finalists, as well as five-star wing Jordyn Palmer.

With several major recruiting decisions approaching, South Carolina has an opportunity to build a strong foundation for its future roster.

However, scholarship availability could become a factor as the class takes shape.

The original recruiting report indicated that South Carolina had only three guaranteed open scholarships, meaning an additional commitment could require a roster adjustment if no extra spot becomes available.

South Carolina or LSU: Who Lands the Five-Star Post?

Johnson’s recruitment has reached a critical stage, with two SEC programs remaining in contention.

South Carolina has the opportunity to add another highly ranked frontcourt prospect to its 2027 class, while LSU is competing for the same player.

Johnson’s decision will reveal which program earns her commitment.

For now, the Gamecocks remain in contention, but no commitment has been announced.

South Carolina fans will be watching closely as Johnson prepares to make her choice.

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