The powerhouse South Carolina women’s basketball program is experiencing significant roster changes following their 35-4 season that ended with a heartbreaking loss to UConn in the national championship game. Coach Dawn Staley now faces the challenge of rebuilding while maintaining the Gamecocks’ elite status in women’s college basketball.
With the transfer portal window open from March 24 to April 22, South Carolina currently holds four available scholarships. The Gamecocks are strategically targeting high-impact transfers to complement their returning core and incoming freshmen, aiming to remain national title contenders for the 2025-26 season.
Players Leaving South Carolina
MiLaysia Fulwiley
The SEC Sixth Player of the Year officially entered the transfer portal on April 11, 2025, after contributing significantly during her two seasons with the Gamecocks. Fulwiley helped the team reach the national championship game and has been designated with a “do not contact” status, suggesting she likely has a preferred destination already in mind.
Sakima Walker
The post player entered the transfer portal earlier on April 8, 2025, departing from South Carolina. Walker is reportedly still evaluating her options and hasn’t yet committed to a new program as she seeks opportunities for increased playing time and development.
Players Joining South Carolina
Ta’Niya Latson
The Florida State guard and nation’s leading scorer last season has committed to South Carolina, instantly becoming the Gamecocks’ most impactful addition. Latson is considered one of the top transfers in the country and brings exceptional scoring ability that should elevate South Carolina’s championship aspirations.
Non-Transfer Portal Updates
Bree Hall, Sania Feagin, and Te-Hina Paopao, these three seniors have exhausted their eligibility and are departing the program. Paopao is projected as a late first to early second-round WNBA draft pick, while Feagin is expected to be selected in the late second to early third round of the upcoming WNBA draft.
Raven Johnson still has eligibility remaining but hasn’t yet announced whether she will return for another season or declare for the WNBA Draft. Her decision will significantly impact the Gamecocks’ backcourt depth for next season.
Incoming Additions
Agot Makeer, the highly rated five-star wing and No. 4 overall recruit in the 2025 class according to ESPN has committed to South Carolina. Makeer is a McDonald’s All-American who chose the Gamecocks over top programs like UConn and Michigan State.
Ayla McDowell, another McDonald’s All-American wing recruit ranked No. 22 overall in the 2025 class has also committed to join Coach Staley’s program. Both Makeer and McDowell are expected to provide immediate contributions and represent the future of South Carolina basketball.
KEEP READING: TCU Women’s Basketball Transfer Portal: Latest Updates on Who’s In and Who’s Out
Even with substantial changes to roster, South Carolina is still a solid option to win the 2026 NCAA Women’s Basketball Championship. Their projected starting five of Raven Johnson, Ta’Niya Latson, Tessa Johnson, Chloe Kitts, and Joyce Edwards has a chance to win a championship with a good mix of experience and scoring explosiveness.
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