The USC-Aiken commit leaves Goose Creek as one of the most decorated players in program history. Along with helping lead them to back-to-back Lower State Championship appearances, Ja’Quell was 3x All-Region, 2x Region Player of the Year, a 2026 Carolina Classic All-Star, and a now 2x All-State choice. Brown put up 12.8 points per game, 3.7 assists per game, and 3.3 steals per game in his final ride.

Ja’Quell Brown Ja’Quell Brown 6'1" | CG Goose Creek | 2026 State SC was one of the highest-ranked prospects at the Francis Marion Team Camp and left at the top of Coach Jake Zehnder’s radar. Brown has quickly developed into one of the best shooters in South Carolina’s 2026 Class. He knocked down three of his five attempts from behind the arc in Wednesday’s first game, finishing with 13 points overall. Ja’Quell is also a guy who you can trust with the ball in his hands because he has a great feel and is a terrific passer. Brown stands out in his role defensively with active hands and loves to get out in transition.

Ja’Quell excels in the transition game and getting the ball to the cup. He really likes to and looks to finish on the left-side of the basket a lot of the time. Ja’Quell will take a charge on command at times it seems for the Gators. He does a nice job of turning the corner and racing to the bucket.

He made the move up from #24 to #16 this time around. Ja’Quell is currently averaging 19.7 ppg, 4.3 rebounds and 2.7 assists for the Gators (23-3). The Gators play Myrtle Beach HS in the 3rd Round of the SCHSL Class 5A-Division 2 Playoffs.

Leading off Saturday’s Palmetto Bracket standouts is Goose Creek’s Ja’Quell Brown Ja’Quell Brown 6'1" | CG Goose Creek | 2026 State SC . He was crucial in their second-round matchup with Greenville, putting up a game-high 19 Points in the win. Brown has a very balanced offensive game that features a special change of pace that helps him beat defenders off the dribble and get to the paint. Ja’Quell is also strong through contact and a smart player when the defense collapses around him. The perimeter shooting is also an attribute that stood out as Brown hit a key three in each half to help push the Gators into the Championship Game.