Despite earning an NIT invitation, the South Carolina Gamecocks have chosen to opt out, focusing instead on preparations for the 2025 college basketball season.
Head coach Lamont Paris addressed the decision, citing injuries and roster attrition as key reasons for withdrawing. While he respects the NIT as a competitive postseason opportunity, Paris emphasized the team’s long-term goal: returning to the NCAA Tournament in 2026.
“We competed in one of the best conferences in college basketball history,” Paris said. “While we didn’t reach our goal of making the NCAA Tournament, I’m extremely proud of the effort and determination our guys played with all season.”
At first glance, declining a postseason opportunity may seem unusual, but South Carolina is prioritizing roster development and recruiting, especially with the transfer portal dominating the modern game. The Gamecocks have already signed four players in the 2025 recruiting class, including four-star point guard Eli Ellis, and are expected to target transfer talent—particularly with Collin Murray-Boyles likely declaring for the NBA Draft.
By stepping away from the NIT, South Carolina gains a head start in scouting and recruiting, a luxury postseason teams don’t have. After making the NCAA Tournament just a season ago, Paris and his staff are determined to reload and make a stronger push for March Madness in 2026.
