Jamyest Williams sticking with Gamecocks

South Carolina capped off National Signing Day 2017 by holding on to its most pursued commitment.

The Gamecocks withstood a furious push from Georgia to land Loganville (Ga.) Grayson four-star ATH Jamyest Williams, who announced his intentions to stick with South Carolina rather than flip to Georgia.

"Me and my dad had a sit-down talk and went through it. At Georgia, it's my hometown and I knew everything about it," Williams said after announcing his final choice. "I enjoyed it every single. I think this is the best fit for me, just to get away and define myself as a man at South Carolina."

Williams originally committed to South Carolina last summer, but when hometown UGA started to push, Williams took a visit to Athens to give Kirby Smart the chance to make his pitch.

With Williams' recruitment at 50-50 between the two programs, the Gamecocks countered with their official visit this past weekend, which ultimately put them over the top.

"I let Coach Muschamp know on my official visit," Williams said of his choice. "It's not about opportunities, it's about expectations. His expectation is to turn this program around. "

The 5-foot-9, 172-pounder, ranked by Rivals.com as one of the top 150 prospects nationally, has excelled in all three phases of the game at the high school level. In college, he best projects as a defensive back who can also contribute as a special teams returner.

"I can impact highly in the secondary and also in the kick and punt return game on special teams," the four-star athlete said.

Williams, who chose the Gamecocks over 40-plus offers, was recruited to Carolina by defensive coordinator Travaris Robinson.