As the South Carolina women’s basketball team prepares for the 2025-26 season, the squad is facing a mix of new challenges and opportunities. After the departures of five key players—including WNBA draft picks Sania Feagin, Te-Hina Paopao, and Bree Hall, as well as star guard MiLaysia Fulwiley—head coach Dawn Staley has brought in a strong influx of talent.
The team will see the arrival of the nation’s leading scorer, Ta’Niya Latson, and the 6-6 center Madina Okot, along with two promising freshmen, Agot Makeer and Ayla McDowell. With these new faces and returnees, Staley will be able to craft a dynamic starting lineup.
Predicting South Carolina’s Lineup
PG: Raven Johnson
Raven Johnson is expected to anchor the point guard position for the Gamecocks. The sophomore has proven to be a reliable floor leader, averaging 5.5 assists per game last season. Her ability to facilitate and control the game’s tempo as the primary ball handler makes her an essential piece in South Carolina’s offensive scheme.
SG: Ta’Niya Latson
One of the most exciting new additions to the Gamecocks is Ta’Niya Latson, who comes from Florida State and is the nation’s leading scorer. Latson’s impressive 20.3 points per game highlight her ability to score from all areas on the floor. Her versatility as a scorer and playmaker will add an offensive punch to South Carolina’s backcourt, making her a key player in their quest for another successful season.
SG/SF: Tessa Johnson
Tessa Johnson is poised to take over as the starting small forward. Johnson led the Gamecocks in 3-point shooting last season at an impressive 43%, which will be crucial in spreading the floor and providing much-needed perimeter shooting. Her defensive capabilities and versatility make her an asset for Staley, as Johnson can slide between the guard and forward positions depending on the matchup. Expect her to be a key player in both the offensive and defensive schemes.
PF: Joyce Edwards
Joyce Edwards will play a central role in the Gamecocks’ frontcourt. She brings a solid inside presence while also being capable of stretching the floor with mid-range shooting. Her versatility on offense and her defensive tenacity will make her a crucial component of the team’s success. As a reliable scorer and rebounder, Edwards will help solidify the frontcourt alongside Kitts.
PF/ C: Chloe Kitts
Chloe Kitts is another player expected to start in the forward position for South Carolina. Kitts has developed into a solid shooter, capable of hitting from outside, providing more spacing on offense. Her size and shooting ability give Staley flexibility, as Kitts can play both inside and on the perimeter. Her skill set will allow the Gamecocks to run a more dynamic offensive system while contributing defensively.
How Will the New Transfers Help South Carolina?
The influx of new transfers and freshmen will give South Carolina several advantages heading into the 2025-26 season.
Ta’Niya Latson’s scoring ability is a significant boost to the Gamecocks’ offense. Her scoring versatility will take some of the pressure off returning players like Tessa Johnson, allowing her to focus on her perimeter shooting.
Madina Okot’s arrival as a 6-6 center gives South Carolina the true center they were missing last season. Okot will provide much-needed depth in the post, adding a shot-blocking presence and rebounding strength. Okot’s size and skill will better equip the Gamecocks to compete inside.
Keep Reading: Dawn Staley vs. Geno Auriemma: Who Defines Women’s College Basketball in the Modern Era?
Freshmen Agot Makeer and Ayla McDowell also bring added depth to the roster. Makeer, a 6-1 wing, will add another three-point shooting threat, helping to space the floor and complement the offensive system. McDowell’s versatility as a 6-2 small forward will allow Staley to rotate players based on matchups, providing flexibility in the starting lineup and bench rotation.
Overall, the new transfers and freshmen will fill key gaps and provide the Gamecocks greater versatility, depth, and balance in their 2025-26 season lineup. The blend of the returning talent with these new players will be pivotal in keeping South Carolina among the nation’s elite programs.
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