Saniya Rivers is undeniably one of the most exciting talents in women’s basketball today. But her journey didn’t start on the court—it started at home
With Dee Dee and Jimmy Rivers behind her, she’s not just equipped to chase greatness—she’s equipped to handle it with grace.
From the early days of backyard training to the national spotlight, her parents have been her anchors.
And as her career continues to unfold, it’s clear that the legacy of the Rivers family is one of passion, perseverance, and parental love.
Saniya Rivers’ basketball story is far from over, but her college career has already been a memorable one. From top-ranked high school prospect to national champion, from sixth player to All-ACC standout, she has taken each step with grace and determination.
As she wraps up her senior year at NC State, the basketball world will be watching — and waiting — for what comes next in the remarkable journey of this rising star.
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Table of Contents
Saniya Rivers: Who Is He?
A Rising Star in Women’s College Basketball
Saniya Rivers has steadily emerged as one of the most dynamic and versatile guards in women’s college basketball.1
As of April 2025, she is in her senior year with the NC State Wolfpack, and her journey from a highly touted high school recruit to a national champion and conference star has been marked by talent, resilience, and continual growth.
Early Promise and High School Dominance
Before she ever set foot on a college court, Saniya Rivers was already making waves as a high school phenom.
Ranked third overall in the class of 2021 by ESPN, Rivers was a five-star recruit who captivated scouts with her explosive athleticism, strong defensive instincts, and ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor.
Coming out of Eugene Ashley High School in Wilmington, North Carolina, she was the 2021 Naismith High School Player of the Year, among other prestigious accolades.
Her decision to commit to the South Carolina Gamecocks was seen as a major recruiting win for Dawn Staley’s powerhouse program, and expectations were sky-high from day one.
Danggg, I’m already a “former” player. Brb, crying🥺🥺 https://t.co/fGdOQgLqUW
— Saniya rivers🥵 (@Ihoop___22) March 31, 2025
National Championship Glory with the Gamecocks
In her freshman year at South Carolina (2021-22 season), Rivers played a supporting role on a team stacked with talent and veteran leadership.
She appeared in 27 games, often providing a spark off the bench. While her minutes were limited, her contributions were valuable, particularly on defense and in transition.
That season culminated in the Gamecocks winning the 2022 NCAA Women’s Basketball National Championship, giving Rivers a title in her very first year of college basketball.
Though she wasn’t a starter, her experience in such a high-pressure, championship-winning environment helped her mature quickly and understand what it takes to compete at the highest level.
Saniya Rivers: Career
Transferring to NC State
Despite being part of a national title team, Rivers opted for a change after just one season.2
Ahead of the 2022-23 season, she made the decision to transfer to NC State, joining the Wolfpack program under head coach Wes Moore.
The transfer was met with curiosity and anticipation. Many wondered how Rivers would adapt to a new team, new system, and a larger role.
However, it didn’t take long for her to silence any doubts. She flourished almost immediately in Raleigh, displaying a more complete game and greater confidence.
Making Her Mark: Sixth Player of the Year
In her sophomore season (2022-23) with NC State, Rivers embraced a crucial role off the bench and quickly became one of the most impactful players in the ACC. She played in 31 games, providing a blend of scoring, defense, and tempo control.
Her performance earned her the ACC Sixth Player of the Year award, highlighting her ability to change the flow of games and energize her team when called upon.
It also showed her maturity in accepting and excelling in a non-starting role — a testament to her team-first mentality and coachability.
Elevation to Stardom: Junior Year Breakout
Rivers took a major leap during her junior season (2023-24). No longer coming off the bench, she became a starter and cornerstone of the Wolfpack’s lineup. Her averages improved across the board, and her presence on the court was impossible to ignore.
She was selected to the All-ACC First Team and the All-Defensive Team, confirming her status as one of the elite two-way players in the conference.
Her ability to guard multiple positions, create turnovers, and push the pace in transition made her a nightmare matchup for opposing teams.
In addition to her conference honors, Rivers received AP All-America Honorable Mention recognition — a national nod to her growing stature in the college game.
Versatility and Impact on the Court
Rivers is best described as a do-it-all guard. Standing at 6’1”, she has the size to play multiple perimeter positions and the athleticism to dominate both ends of the floor.
She can score at the rim, knock down mid-range jumpers, and occasionally stretch the floor with the three-point shot. More importantly, she’s a disruptive force defensively, often guarding the opponent’s best player and forcing turnovers that lead to fast breaks.
She’s also an excellent rebounder for her position and a capable playmaker, making her invaluable in nearly every aspect of the game.
Whether she’s initiating offense or locking down an opposing guard, Rivers affects the game in ways that go far beyond the stat sheet.
Leadership in Her Senior Year
Now in her senior year (2024-25), Rivers has become the heart and soul of the Wolfpack.
With several seasons of experience under her belt and championship pedigree from her time at South Carolina, she leads not just with her play but with her voice and example.
Her leadership is crucial to NC State’s continued success. The younger players look up to her, and she consistently rises to the occasion in big moments.
Her composure, competitiveness, and basketball IQ have made her one of the most respected players in the program — and in the conference as a whole.
Saniya Rivers: Recognition and National Profile
While Rivers has long been known in recruiting circles and ACC competition, her national profile continues to grow.3
The AP All-America Honorable Mention was a strong sign of respect, but she’s also been a featured player on highlight reels, a guest on basketball podcasts, and a topic of conversation in WNBA circles.
Her dynamic skill set, coupled with her relentless work ethic, makes her an intriguing prospect for the next level. Scouts and analysts have noted her ability to guard multiple positions — a premium skill in today’s pro game.
Off the Court: Character and Work Ethic
One of the most impressive things about Saniya Rivers is her character. Coaches and teammates consistently praise her work ethic, humility, and dedication to improving her game.
She has embraced every role she’s been given — from a freshman reserve to a sixth player to a senior leader — and has never stopped putting in the work.
She’s also known for being community-minded, often engaging with fans and giving back to the community. That level of engagement makes her not only a great basketball player but also a role model for young athletes.
Legacy and Lasting Impact
- As Rivers nears the end of her college career, the question naturally turns to what’s next. With her size, athleticism, and two-way potential, she is a strong WNBA Draft prospect.
- Teams looking for a versatile guard who can defend at a high level and grow offensively will undoubtedly have their eyes on her.
- She may not have put up the gaudiest scoring numbers throughout her career, but her impact goes well beyond points.
- Her defensive tenacity, ability to create for others, and toughness make her the kind of glue player every WNBA team values.
- No matter where her basketball journey takes her next, Saniya Rivers has already left an indelible mark on both South Carolina and NC State.
- At South Carolina, she gained a national championship ring and experienced winning at the highest level.
- At NC State, she found her rhythm, evolved into a star, and became one of the most respected players in the ACC.
- Her journey — one that includes success, transitions, growth, and leadership — serves as an inspiration to many young players.
- Rivers represents what it means to stay focused, adaptable, and driven, regardless of the situation.
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Meet Saniya Rivers’ Parents
Behind every great athlete is a support system that molds, motivates, and believes in them even before the spotlight finds them.
For NCAA basketball standout Saniya Rivers, that support system begins at home with her parents—Dee Dee Toon Rivers and Jimmy Donnell Rivers.
Their deep connection to the sport, passion for competition, and unwavering support have played an integral role in shaping Saniya’s basketball journey.
Basketball isn’t just Saniya Rivers’ passion—it runs in her blood. Both of her parents were collegiate basketball players, laying a solid athletic foundation long before Saniya picked up a ball.
Her mother, Dee Dee Toon Rivers, showcased her talents at the University of North Carolina Wilmington, while her father, Jimmy Donnell Rivers, made his mark at Elon University.
Their experience in the sport gave Saniya not just genetics, but also a built-in set of mentors and coaches from day one.
Dee Dee Toon Rivers: The Matriarch with a Basketball IQ
Dee Dee Toon Rivers, a former college basketball player at UNC Wilmington, brings more than just memories of her playing days to the table.
Her deep understanding of the game has been a guiding force in Saniya’s development. As a mother, she blends nurturing with a competitive edge, instilling in her daughter the discipline and confidence needed to thrive on and off the court.
Many who have followed Saniya’s growth in basketball often credit Dee Dee’s hands-on involvement—from helping with drills, analyzing games, or simply offering wisdom from her playing years.
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A Father’s Influence: Jimmy Donnell Rivers’ Lasting Impact
Jimmy Donnell Rivers played basketball at Elon University and has remained a passionate supporter of the game ever since.
His role as a father and mentor has been invaluable in Saniya’s basketball journey. With his own background in college basketball, Jimmy was instrumental in developing Saniya’s court vision, IQ, and competitive drive.
Beyond skills, he also provided the emotional support needed to balance the highs and lows of competitive sports.
Whether she was celebrating a win or dealing with setbacks, Saniya could always count on her dad for perspective and encouragement.
The Power of Experience: Parents Who’ve Been There
What makes Dee Dee and Jimmy’s influence particularly unique is their first-hand experience as student-athletes.
They’ve walked the path Saniya now treads—balancing school, training, competition, and pressure.
This shared understanding has given Saniya an unmatched support system, helping her navigate every stage of her basketball career with grounded guidance.
Their insights into college recruitment, training regimens, mental toughness, and injury management have helped Saniya avoid common pitfalls and stay focused on her goals.
Saniya Rivers: Nationality
Both of Saniya Rivers’ parents are American nationals, and their identity and cultural values are deeply rooted in American athletic culture.
Growing up in the U.S., Saniya was exposed to a competitive sports environment from a young age, and her parents’ background made them adept at helping her navigate this world.
Their American roots also allowed them to connect with coaches, programs, and athletic communities in ways that supported Saniya’s rise through high school and collegiate ranks.
For Saniya, her parents aren’t just guardians—they’re her role models. From their athletic achievements to their strength of character, she’s often spoken highly of the impact they’ve had on her life.
It’s not uncommon to hear her thank them in interviews, showing how grounded and appreciative she remains despite her rising fame.
The Rivers family dynamic serves as a reminder that the best athletes aren’t born in isolation—they’re raised with love, patience, and wisdom.
Keeping Her Grounded Amidst Rising Stardom
With national recognition, NCAA attention, and growing media coverage, it’s easy for young athletes to become overwhelmed or disconnected. But thanks to her parents, Saniya has stayed grounded.
Dee Dee and Jimmy continue to be a strong moral compass for her, ensuring that fame never overshadows integrity, and accolades don’t dilute her purpose.
They remain her biggest fans—not just for her achievements, but for the person she continues to become.
As Saniya continues to rise in the world of basketball, her parents’ legacy lives on—not just through her performance, but in how she conducts herself.
They’ve passed down more than athletic talent; they’ve given her a roadmap for success, a blueprint for humility, and a legacy of hard work.
Their story is not just about raising a basketball star—it’s about raising a young woman with heart, ambition, and purpose.
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