Live from the scene, South Carolina continues to strengthen its defense early in the portal cycle. On Monday evening, the Gamecocks received a significant boost with the addition of SO CB Brandon Cisse from NC State. Cisse, a product of Lakewood High School in Sumter, SC, had recently visited SEC rivals Ole Miss and Florida before ultimately deciding to return to his home state.
Cisse brings valuable experience to the Gamecocks, having started 10 games for the Wolfpack during the 2023 season. Over the course of his career at NC State, he tallied 28 tackles and 5 pass breakups. His most memorable moment came with a game-sealing interception against Miami in 2023.
With three years of eligibility remaining to play two, Cisse adds depth to a South Carolina defensive backfield that, while talented, has lacked depth. He’ll join DB Myles Norwood as key additions to the defensive back rotation, competing alongside Judge Collier, Vicari Swain, and Jalewis Solomon for playing time at cornerback.
Cisse’s arrival strengthens the Gamecocks’ defensive unit, and continues the trend emphasized by Director of Player Personnel Darren Uscher, who tweeted: “the BEST from South Carolina COME BACK HOME to Carolina!!!”
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Brady Hunt Rejoins Garnet Trust, confirming his return to South Carolina Football
In a significant development for South Carolina football, Brady Hunt, a 6-foot-5, 253-pound tight end, has signed a new NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deal with the Gamecocks’ official collective, The Garnet Trust, ensuring his return to the program for the upcoming season.
Hunt, who transferred to South Carolina from Ball State last offseason, was part of the Gamecocks’ three-man tight end rotation in 2024 alongside Joshua Simon and Michael Smith. He made valuable contributions during the season, recording two receptions for 22 yards, including a key first-down grab late in the victory over Missouri. Known for his versatility both as a blocker and a receiver, Hunt is expected to take on an even larger role next season, especially with Simon having exhausted his eligibility.
Before joining South Carolina, Hunt had an impressive 2022 season at Ball State, where he caught 46 passes for 498 yards and five touchdowns. His strong performance at Ball State and subsequent transfer to the Gamecocks highlight his potential to become a key player in South Carolina’s offensive game plan.
This new NIL deal underscores the Gamecocks’ commitment to player retention, with The Garnet Trust playing a crucial role in securing such agreements. Retaining players like Hunt is essential for the program’s continued success, and head coach Shane Beamer has stressed the importance of building strong relationships and maintaining open communication to keep the team unified and motivated.
For more on Brady Hunt’s journey and his involvement with The Garnet Trust, check out his appearance on The Garnet Trust Hour below:
