By Thomas Grant Jr.
After weeks of dropping hints both during games and online, Donovan Murph finally made his college choice.
The All-State wide receiver from state Division II runner-up Irmo will stay local and attend the University of South Carolina. He made the announcement during the Jan. 2 Under Armour All-American Game in Deland, Fla.
“It means a lot,” Murph told 2025 On3 Industry Ranking. “I know there are a lot of people watching me and there are a lot of people in the city counting on me. My cousin (former Calhoun County High, University of South Carolina and Super Bowl champion wide receiver) Alshon Jeffery, he was able to bring a legacy to South Carolina with Jadeveon Clowney and other players.
The recruitment for Murph only intensified after he reclassified from junior to senior this season. He helped the Yellow Jackets reach the Class 5A Division II title game and finished with 96 receptions for 1,328 yards and 12 touchdowns.
“Everybody shows me love. The whole staff shows me love. It’s not just one coach,” he said in an interview with On3’s Chad Simmons. It’s not just one coach. One would think that I go there and only the receivers coach is showing me love. But I know everybody up there, the quarterbacks coach – Mike Shula – who just got hired, coach Beamer, coach Gray and coach Lucas. All of those coaches, they show me so much love and it feels like a family. I could definitely see myself there with a staff like that. I know everybody and I can go talk to anybody about anything. They’re not going to lie to me.”
While the Gamecocks gain a Yellow Jacket, they also saw another one depart the program. Former Irmo safety Nick Emmanwori officially announced plans to enter the 2025 NFL draft.
Speculation became rampant after Emmanwori sat out the second half of the Citrus Bowl loss to Illinois.
“Thank you South Carolina, these past 3 years a bunch of history and memories were made,” Emmanwori wrote on Twitter. “I swear I wouldn’t trade it for anything, the journey was amazing. I’m a little bittersweet about leaving, but I’m glad I got to suit up with the team one last time they meant a lot to me.
“I also appreciate the fans support over the last 3 years. The best fan base in the country, you guys are passionate and invested about the Program in a good way. I’m glad I stayed home & came to South Carolina.”
A first-team All-America selection by the Associated Press, Emmanwori had 54 tackles, four interceptions and two defensive touchdowns last season. He finished his career at South Carolina with 163 solo tackles, six interceptions and two TDs.
Feature photo by Donovan Murph
