Newcomers Shine as Gamecocks Dominate Anderson in 112–31 Exhibition Win
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Joyce Edwards poured in 27 points to lead top-ranked South Carolina to a commanding 112–31 victory over Anderson University, but it was the new faces in garnet and black who truly stole the spotlight.
Transfer forward Madina Okot made an immediate impact with a double-double performance, tallying 17 points, 14 rebounds, and six blocks in a dominant showing on both ends. Fellow transfer Ta’Niya Latson, last season’s nation-leading scorer at Florida State, added 14 points, while freshman Agot Makeer showcased her versatility with 16 points, six rebounds, five steals, and four assists. Another newcomer, Ayla McDowell, chipped in six points to round out the team’s balanced scoring attack.
As expected, head coach Dawn Staley opened the game with a starting lineup of Raven Johnson, Latson, Tessa Johnson, Edwards, and Okot. The group set the tone early, jumping out to a 16–0 lead before Anderson managed its first basket.
The Gamecocks controlled every aspect of the first half, leading 31–6 after one quarter and 61–8 at halftime. However, a brief lapse in focus after the break allowed the Trojans to go on an 8–0 run, prompting Staley to substitute in her second unit — who quickly restored order. By the end of the third quarter, South Carolina had stretched its advantage to 85–23 and surpassed the 100-point mark with just under four minutes remaining.
Raven Johnson set the tone early, drilling a corner three-pointer for the team’s first basket and finishing with 10 points and three assists. Tessa Johnson contributed five points on 1-of-5 shooting from beyond the arc but grabbed six rebounds to aid the team effort. Adhel Tac added seven points and eight boards off the bench.
The lopsided win not only showcased South Carolina’s returning stars but also offered a glimpse of the depth and talent added through recruiting and the transfer portal — a sign that Dawn Staley’s Gamecocks remain as formidable as ever heading into the new season.
