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COLUMBIA — Coach Dawn Staley mentioned that South Carolina women’s basketball faces a new challenge without a primary post player for the first time in a decade. This shift in approach requires contribution from everyone on the team, including guards.
Over the past few years, the Gamecocks’ roster has been built around dominant post players like A’ja Wilson, Aliyah Boston, and Kamilla Cardoso.
During the exhibition game against Memphis, players like Sania Feagin, freshman Joyce Edwards, and Chloe Kitts showcased how the team can adapt in the absence of a standout post player.
Forward Ashlyn Watkins is currently suspended from team activities following her arrest on charges of first-degree assault and battery, as well as kidnapping on August 31. She is set to appear in court on Friday.
Guard performance will be crucial in the upcoming season for the defending national champions, and fortunately, guard play is a strength for the Gamecocks.
Below is a breakdown of the key offensive strengths each returning guard brings to the team.
Raven Johnson: Defense
Johnson is renowned for her defensive skills in college basketball. When facing teams with star post players, opposing teams often attempt to feed the post.
Johnson’s ability to guard on the perimeter effectively disrupts entry passes into the paint, which is crucial for the Gamecocks as they adjust to new post players, some of whom may be undersized.
Te-Hina Paopao: 3-point shooting
If the team lacks a dominant post presence, the focus will shift to outside shooting, particularly from beyond the arc. Paopao excelled as a 3-point shooter last season, hitting 46% for a total of 87 shots. She already made two 3-pointers in the first quarter against Memphis.
Paopao’s ability to stretch the floor and provide smart interior passes will be crucial for the team.
MiLaysia Fulwiley: Passing
Fulwiley is known for her exceptional ballhandling skills in college basketball, playing with speed, confidence, and versatility. With players like Cardoso who thrived on lob passes into the paint, the offense will need to adapt this season.
Fulwiley’s court vision allows her to drive and make strategic passes, whether it’s a kick-out or a low pass to the post players moving inside.
Tessa Johnson: Mid-range
Johnson excels in mid-range shooting and displays composure inside the arc. Her ability to draw defenders and make smart passes to forwards or hit mid-range jumpers off the dribble is valuable for the team.
Similar to Fulwiley, Johnson understands the importance of balancing inside play without congesting the lanes.
Bree Hall: Complete player/leadership
Hall is considered one of the most complete players on the team, excelling in defense with speed and scoring at all three levels on offense, including an improved 3-point game. Her leadership, especially as a senior with experience in Staley’s teams, will be invaluable.
Lulu Kesin covers South Carolina athletics for The Greenville News and the USA TODAY Network. For inquiries, email her at lkesin@gannett.com and follow her on X, formerly known as Twitter, @Lulukesin
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