New Era in Columbia: Lamont Paris Ushers In a Wave of Talent with Six Key Transfers for 2025-26
COLUMBIA, S.C. — In the ever-evolving landscape of college basketball, where rosters can shift like sand in a storm, South Carolina head coach Lamont Paris is building something solid. Something lasting. On Thursday, Paris and his staff announced the addition of six transfers — a dynamic blend of proven scorers, rebounding machines, and experienced leaders — who are set to bolster the Gamecocks’ roster for the 2025-26 season.
It’s a class defined by experience, versatility, and perhaps most importantly, a sense of purpose. At the center of it all is the return of a familiar face who helped shape Paris’ early success in Columbia: Meechie Johnson.
The Return of the Catalyst: Meechie Johnson
Few players in recent South Carolina history have carried the combination of flair, grit, and leadership that Johnson brought during his initial two-year stint with the Gamecocks. Now, after a season at Ohio State disrupted by personal circumstances, the Cleveland native is coming home.
“Welcoming Meechie back is special in so many ways,” Paris said. “He’s a known commodity — not just as a player, but as a person who raises the energy in any room.”
Johnson, a career 1,000-point scorer, was instrumental in South Carolina’s breakthrough 2023-24 season that saw them reach the NCAA Tournament and finish tied for second in the SEC. His 29-point explosion against Notre Dame and clutch performances, like a 25-point masterpiece in a comeback win over Florida, cemented his legacy. Now, he has a chance to write a final chapter — perhaps the most meaningful one yet.
Power in the Paint: Christ Essandoko and Nordin Kapic
Paris also added two imposing frontcourt forces in Christ Essandoko and Nordin Kapic — big men who can score, rebound, and stretch the floor.
Essandoko, a 7-footer with soft hands and developing range, showed promise in stints at Saint Joseph’s and Providence. His ability to dominate the glass (15 rebounds vs. George Mason) and score inside and out gives South Carolina a different dimension.
“Christ has that rare combination — size, feel, and touch,” Paris said. “He’s just scratching the surface.”
Kapic, meanwhile, is perhaps the most intriguing wildcard in this group. A Division II standout at Lynn, he made a seamless transition to Division I at UC San Diego, helping lead the Tritons to 30 wins and an NCAA Tournament berth. Kapic brings a scorer’s mentality with a rugged, European-style edge.
“He’s a competitor in every sense,” said Paris. “His path — from Austria to DII to March Madness — speaks to his work ethic and belief in himself.”
Wings of Versatility: Knox, Strong, and Sharavjamts
On the wings and in the backcourt, South Carolina is adding not just talent, but basketball IQ and pedigree.
Kobe Knox, younger brother of NBA veteran Kevin Knox, brings a deep resume of winning. He was a central figure in South Florida’s rise to a top-25 team and helped them clinch their first AAC regular season title. A capable shooter and underrated playmaker, Knox’s high-level experience and composure will be invaluable in SEC play.
“He’s battle-tested,” Paris said. “He knows what winning looks like.”
Elijah Strong, fresh off a breakout season at Boston College, adds a blend of power and finesse. With a strong frame and improving range, he’s become a versatile offensive threat. Strong’s high school pedigree — including a North Carolina state title and MOP honors — shows he knows how to perform on big stages.
“Elijah has grown so much, and he’s only going to keep rising,” said Paris.
And then there’s Mike Sharavjamts, the globetrotting 6’9″ guard from Mongolia, who made history as the first NCAA Division I player from his country. He brings unmatched creativity and a cerebral approach to the game. With 99 career appearances and stints at Dayton, San Francisco, and Utah, Sharavjamts offers leadership, vision, and a high ceiling.
“Mike is a true big guard,” Paris noted. “He sees the floor like a 6-footer, but he plays with the presence of someone who can control the game from any spot.”
A Program Taking Shape
This wave of transfers isn’t just about filling roster spots — it’s about continuing a cultural shift in Columbia. Under Paris, South Carolina has gone from rebuilding to reloading. The 2023-24 success story is now the foundation, not the peak.
Each of these six players brings a unique chapter to the Gamecocks’ evolving identity: the triumphant return of Johnson, the international rise of Kapic and Sharavjamts, the sharpshooting and savvy of Knox and Strong, and the towering presence of Essandoko.
Together, they represent a new core. A new hope.
“This is a group that loves basketball, loves competition, and knows what it takes,” Paris said. “Our fans should be excited. We’re not just adding players — we’re adding winners.”
As the 2025-26 season approaches, one thing is clear: the Gamecocks aren’t waiting for the future to come to them. They’re building it — one transfer, one triumph at a time.
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