Samari Matthews goes with Texas

Huntersville (N.C.) Hough four-star cornerback Samari Matthews, a long-time South Carolina target, committed to Texas on Friday night.

Matthews chose the Longhorns over the Gamecocks and fellow finalists Miami and Florida State after taking official visits to all four schools.

Despite the setback for South Carolina, the Gamecocks are not expected to give up the pursuit of the class of 2026’s No. 9 cornerback.

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Matthews was recruited to Texas by cornerbacks coach Mark Orphey, a former graduate assistant and defensive analyst for the Gamecocks.

Matthews is the No. 70 overall prospect and No. 9 CB in the 2026 cycle, according to the Rivals Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He’s also the No. 6 player in North Carolina.

Another highly regarded South Carolina target is slated to announce his decision in a few days.

Rock Hill (S.C.) Northwestern four-star safety Tamarion Watkins will commit during a ceremony at his high school this Monday at 2 p.m.

The Gamecocks, Texas A&M, Georgia, and Miami are the official finalists. South Carolina and the Aggies are battling for his signature, though.

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