South Carolina has made a significant addition to its roster by signing former NC State cornerback Brandon Cisse. This exciting news was reported by On3’s Hayes Fawcett. Cisse, who has spent the last two seasons with the Wolfpack, will bring his skills to the Gamecocks, where he has one year of eligibility remaining.
Brandon Cisse’s Performance at NC State
Cisse has shown his abilities on the field, playing in 22 games during his time at NC State. Over the past two seasons, he racked up 38 total tackles, demonstrating his capability as a defensive player. Notably, he also recorded six passes defended and one interception, showcasing his knack for disrupting opposing offenses. This past season alone, Cisse contributed 28 total tackles and five passes defended, solidifying his reputation as a reliable cornerback.
A Promising Recruit
Before joining NC State, Cisse was a three-star recruit hailing from Lakewood High School in Sumter, South Carolina. In the 2023 recruiting class, he was ranked as the No. 448 overall player and the No. 49 cornerback, according to the On3 Industry Ranking. His impressive high school career set the stage for his transition to the collegiate level, and now he has the chance to make an impact at South Carolina.
Transfer Portal Success for South Carolina
Cisse is not the only player the Gamecocks have secured through the transfer portal. He is the 12th addition to the team, and notably, the second defensive back. South Carolina currently ranks as the No. 27 team in On3’s Transfer Portal Team Rankings, reflecting their strategic efforts to bolster their roster. With Cisse’s experience and skills, he has the potential to be a key player for the Gamecocks in the upcoming season.
Keeping Up with Transfer News
As the college football landscape continues to evolve, staying updated on player movements is crucial. Fans can keep track of the latest transfers through On3’s Transfer Portal wire. Additionally, the On3 Transfer Portal Instagram account and Twitter account are excellent resources for real-time updates on players on the move.
Another Big Commitment: Justin Okoronkwo
In addition to Cisse, South Carolina has also welcomed former Alabama linebacker Justin Okoronkwo to their roster. This move marks another significant commitment from the NCAA Transfer Portal, as confirmed by On3’s Pete Nakos. Okoronkwo brings valuable experience after spending one season with the Crimson Tide.
Okoronkwo’s Journey from Alabama
During his time at Alabama, Okoronkwo played in all 13 games in the 2024 season, finishing with 14 tackles, including 0.5 tackles for loss. His contributions helped Alabama secure a 9-4 record, which was Kalen DeBoer’s first season as head coach. Now, he joins a South Carolina program that also finished with a 9-4 record last season, bringing with him the experience of competing at a high level.
Impact Potential for the Gamecocks
The addition of Okoronkwo is particularly exciting for South Carolina, as the team looks to strengthen its defense. While the Gamecocks return a wealth of talent, they are also losing several key defensive players. Okoronkwo’s arrival could provide the necessary depth and skill to fill those gaps. Will he be able to step in and make an immediate impact? Fans are eager to find out.
Looking Ahead
As the college football season approaches, the Gamecocks are making strategic moves to enhance their roster. With the signings of both Brandon Cisse and Justin Okoronkwo, South Carolina is positioning itself for success. These additions not only bring experience but also a fresh perspective to the team.
The excitement surrounding these transfers is palpable, and fans are hopeful that Cisse and Okoronkwo will play pivotal roles in the upcoming season. With their skills and determination, they have the potential to make a significant impact on the Gamecocks’ performance.
As we continue to follow the twists and turns of college football, one thing is certain: the transfer portal is reshaping rosters and creating new opportunities for players and teams alike. The Gamecocks are poised to make a splash, and their fans are ready to rally behind them as they embark on this new chapter.
