The South Carolina Gamecocks continued their dominant campaign in the 2024-25 NCAA women’s basketball season with another resounding victory. They made it possible by defeating the Vanderbilt Commodores 82-54 on Sunday night.
However, while the team’s performance was a clear display of their superiority, head coach Dawn Staley had more on her mind than just celebrating another victory.
Dawn Staley Highlights Mikayla Blakes’ Scoring Ability
Freshman Mikayla Blakes, despite playing for a Vanderbilt squad that struggled against South Carolina’s dominance, stood out with an impressive performance.
She registered 19 points, seven rebounds, and two assists in 31 minutes of play. Staley was not only impressed but also vocal about Blakes’ potential as a rising star in women’s college basketball.
Following the game, Staley shared her thoughts on Blakes’ talent, acknowledging the freshman’s offensive prowess. The Gamecocks coach has developed numerous elite players throughout her career.
She recognized the young standout’s ability to deliver high-scoring performances against tough competition. Speaking to the media postgame, Staley emphasized the magnitude of Blakes’ contributions as a first-year player in the SEC.
Dawn Staley on Mikayla Blakes pic.twitter.com/L1WnajIWwF
— Alaina Morris (@alainammorris) February 24, 2025
“She’s special. To come in our league and to have done what she’s done, I don’t know if there’s a bigger offensive impact,” Staley said.
With this win, the No. 6-ranked Gamecocks extended their record to 25-3. They have strengthened their position at the top of the SEC standings with a 13-1 conference record. Staley, widely regarded as one of the greatest coaches in college basketball, took time to recognize an exceptional player on the opposing team.
Blakes’ ability to score at a high level has been evident throughout the season, as she has already recorded two 50-point games. Her offensive production, particularly against a team of South Carolina’s caliber, reinforces her status as one of the most promising young players in college basketball.
While Vanderbilt struggled to match the Gamecocks’ firepower, Blakes’ performance proved she could be a major threat in the conference for years to come.
South Carolina’s Offensive Balance Secures Victory
Despite Blakes’ efforts, the Gamecocks imposed their will early and never allowed Vanderbilt to generate any real momentum. South Carolina dominated from the opening tip, establishing a commanding 24-11 lead by the end of the first quarter.
Leading the charge for South Carolina was MiLaysia Fulwiley, who had one of her best performances of the season. She finished the game with 24 points on an impressive 10-of-15 shooting, proving to be nearly unstoppable for the Vanderbilt defense.
KEEP READING: What South Carolina Coach Dawn Staley Shared About Her Mother
Joyce Edwards contributed a dominant double-double with 17 points and 12 rebounds, while Te-Hina Paopao added 13 points, four assists, and three rebounds. The Gamecocks’ ability to spread the scoring load made it difficult for Vanderbilt to focus on stopping any one player.
With the win, South Carolina maintained its position as the top team in the SEC, holding a narrow half-game lead over Texas in the conference standings. Next on their schedule is an important SEC battle against the Ole Miss Rebels on Feb. 27 at 9 p.m. ET.
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