On Wednesday, GamecockCentral’s new Women’s Basketball Forum opened up for fan questions, and it didn’t take long for the conversation to heat up. Here’s a summary of the most interesting topics — from toughest matchups to player predictions and recruiting buzz.
(Responses have been lightly edited for clarity.)
Toughest Matchups and Overrated Teams
CockyGirl: What team do you think will be our toughest matchup? Any top teams that you think are overrated?
“I think the game at LSU will be our toughest one,” the writer replied. “It’s going to be an incredible atmosphere, and you know MiLaysia Fulwiley and company have that one circled.”
As for overrated teams, they pointed to Tennessee in the SEC and Duke nationally. “I’m not yet convinced Kim Caldwell’s system can consistently beat elite teams,” they said of the Lady Vols. Regarding Duke, they added, “In big, close games under Kara Lawson, their offense tends to disappear. They play tight.”
Most Improved Player
Rutledge84: Who will be the most improved player?
“I think Maddy McDaniel will see the biggest jump in production,” came the reply. “People forget that she was outplaying Raven Johnson early last season before missing time with a concussion. She’ll be a key backup point guard and could even share the floor with Raven at times.”
Chances of Ashlyn Watkins and Chloe Kitts Returning
Cockburn: What’s your prediction for Ashlyn Watkins and Chloe Kitts returning next season?
“I’d put Ashlyn at 70% and Chloe at 80%,” the response read. “If Ashlyn wants to continue her basketball career, returning for her senior year makes sense. Chloe, meanwhile, was a projected first-round WNBA pick before her injury. She won’t be ready for the pros next season, so staying at USC to rehab and redshirt would be smart.”
With only six scholarship players projected for next season, Dawn Staley will likely push hard to keep both players in Columbia.
Bench Sparks
Gamekem: Which reserves could be sparks off the bench?
“Maddy McDaniel, definitely. Dawn trusted her in key moments last year — that speaks volumes,” they said. “And right now, I’m also going with Agot Makeer. Her defense is the real deal, and she looked great in the three-point contest last night.”
Recruiting Update on Jerzy Robinson
Dcamp48: What are our chances with Jerzy Robinson?
“I genuinely don’t know,” they admitted. “She’s been very private with her process. But for the first time in years, Dawn can sell real playing time — something LSU and UConn can’t offer.”
Madina Okot’s Eligibility and Shooting
Rock Hill Cock: Is there a chance Madina Okot gets another year of eligibility since her first two were in Kenya?
“It doesn’t look like it,” came the answer. “Apparently, those two years in Kenya count — though if Diego Pavia gets his way, everyone might end up with seven years of eligibility,” they joked.
CaroLuka77: Did Okot’s three-point form look good? Will she actually stretch the floor this year?
“She’s got a nice, smooth shot,” they confirmed. “I’m not sure how much that’ll factor into the offense, but it’s a useful weapon. When you’re 6-foot-6 and standing outside the arc, you can pull a shot-blocker out of the paint — and that can open things up inside.”
The Gamecock faithful are clearly eager for answers — and if these insights are any indication, there’s plenty to be excited about heading into another season under Dawn Staley’s leadership.
