South Carolina forward Hayden Assemian returning for next season

Assemian will add depth and continuity to the Gamecocks' roster.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 12:04am

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting a basketball player in mid-jump shot, with their body broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in a palette of navy blue, forest green, and burnt orange, conveying the dynamic energy and movement of the sport.Assemian's return adds depth and experience to the Gamecocks' frontcourt as they look to build on last season's progress.Columbia Today

South Carolina forward Hayden Assemian has announced that he will return for his sophomore season, giving the Gamecocks another developing option in the frontcourt. Assemian appeared in 23 games as a freshman, averaging 2.5 points and 2.4 rebounds per game while shooting an efficient 69% from the field.

Why it matters

Assemian's return provides continuity and depth to the South Carolina roster as they navigate the offseason and transfer portal. His experience and potential will be valuable assets for the Gamecocks as they look to build on their previous season.

The details

Listed at 6-foot-6 and 230 pounds, Assemian showed flashes of his potential during his freshman campaign, including a 13-point, 5-rebound, 2-block performance earlier in the season. Before arriving at South Carolina, Assemian was a top in-state prospect, helping lead Powdersville High School to a state championship while averaging over 15 points, 8 rebounds, and nearly 3 blocks per game.

  • Assemian appeared in 23 games during his freshman season in 2025-26.

The players

Hayden Assemian

A 6-foot-6, 230-pound forward who played a key role off the bench for South Carolina as a freshman, averaging 2.5 points and 2.4 rebounds per game.

Grant Polk

A South Carolina player who also plans to return for the next season, providing additional depth and experience to the Gamecocks' roster.

Eli Sparkman

A former walk-on at South Carolina who was put on scholarship last year and has a remaining year of eligibility after spending time abroad away from the team.

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The takeaway

Hayden Assemian's decision to return for his sophomore season is a positive sign for the South Carolina Gamecocks, as they look to build continuity and depth in their frontcourt. His potential and experience will be valuable assets as the team navigates the offseason and transfer portal.