What’s Next for South Carolina Women’s Basketball vs Clemson: What to Expect, Rivalry History, and Whether Dawn Staley’s Team Can Continue Its Dominance
The rivalry between South Carolina and Clemson is as old as the Palmetto State itself — a clash of colors, pride, and prestige. When it comes to women’s basketball, though, the script has been one-sided for nearly two decades. As the Gamecocks prepare to face their in-state rivals again, the big question isn’t whether they’ll win — it’s how dominant they’ll be this time.
With Dawn Staley’s squad off to another hot start, fans are eager to see if South Carolina can extend its streak and continue its reign of supremacy over Clemson in one of college basketball’s most lopsided rivalries.
A Rivalry Rooted in Pride and Passion
The South Carolina–Clemson rivalry is one of the oldest in women’s college basketball. Yet, in recent history, it has been heavily tilted toward the Gamecocks.
Under head coach Dawn Staley, South Carolina has not lost to Clemson since 2009, a streak that spans more than a decade and has included blowouts, defensive masterclasses, and national statement games.
In their last five meetings, the Gamecocks have outscored Clemson by an average margin of over 30 points, showcasing their dominance at both ends of the floor.
“It’s always special when we play Clemson,” Staley said earlier this week. “Rivalry games bring out emotion, but we try to treat it like any other matchup — prepare, execute, and compete.”
For Staley, the Clemson game serves as both a measuring stick for her young team and an opportunity to test different rotations before SEC play begins.
What to Expect This Time Around
South Carolina enters the matchup undefeated, coming off impressive wins against Grand Canyon and Bowling Green, while Clemson has been competitive but inconsistent.
The Gamecocks’ high-powered offense, led by Raven Johnson, Ta’Niya Latson, and Joyce Edwards, has been firing on all cylinders. Johnson’s playmaking and defensive intensity set the tone, while Latson’s scoring burst adds a dynamic layer the Tigers will struggle to contain.
Expect South Carolina to push the pace early, applying full-court pressure and testing Clemson’s ability to handle physical play.
“We want to dictate the tempo,” said Johnson. “Every possession matters, especially against a rival. We take pride in representing South Carolina the right way.”
On the defensive end, Staley’s team has been nothing short of elite. The Gamecocks have held opponents to under 35% shooting, using their size and speed to dominate the paint and disrupt passing lanes.
Clemson will likely look to slow the tempo and attack in transition, hoping to keep the Gamecocks from turning the contest into a track meet. But that’s easier said than done.
Players to Watch
- Raven Johnson (South Carolina): The team’s floor general and emotional leader, Johnson’s defense and composure in big moments make her the X-factor. Expect her to control the game’s rhythm from start to finish.
- Joyce Edwards (South Carolina): The freshman phenom continues to impress with her versatility. Her ability to rebound, score inside, and stretch the floor will be key in breaking Clemson’s defensive schemes.
- Ta’Niya Latson (South Carolina): The transfer guard has brought explosive scoring and championship experience. Her chemistry with Johnson is growing stronger each game.
- Amari Robinson (Clemson): The Tigers’ senior forward and all-ACC performer is their best hope at challenging South Carolina’s frontcourt. If Clemson has any chance, Robinson will have to deliver a career night.
Breaking Down the Odds
The odds heavily favor South Carolina — and for good reason. Sportsbooks and analysts project the Gamecocks as double-digit favorites, with some models giving them a 90% chance of victory.
The dominance factor comes from South Carolina’s balance: they can beat teams with defense, depth, or sheer physicality. Clemson, meanwhile, has struggled to maintain consistency on both ends of the floor.
However, rivalry games can bring surprises. Emotions run high, and Clemson will be motivated to snap its losing streak in front of a charged-up crowd.
Still, Staley’s teams rarely crumble under pressure. Their discipline and depth have been the difference in every meeting over the past decade.
Dawn Staley’s Legacy of Dominance
Since taking over the program in 2008, Dawn Staley has transformed South Carolina from an SEC underdog into a national powerhouse.
Under her guidance, the Gamecocks have won three national championships, made five Final Four appearances, and produced some of the WNBA’s brightest stars. But one of her most consistent feats is her perfect record against Clemson since 2010.
“We respect every opponent,” Staley said. “But we take pride in being the best team in the state — every year, every time we step on the floor.”
That mentality has fueled South Carolina’s unprecedented dominance, and there’s no sign of it slowing down anytime soon.
Can Clemson Close the Gap?
Clemson’s women’s basketball program has improved in recent seasons under coach Amanda Butler, but the talent gap remains evident. While the Tigers have recruited strong guards and forwards, matching South Carolina’s athleticism and depth remains an uphill climb.
To have a fighting chance, Clemson must slow down the tempo, limit turnovers, and hit perimeter shots — all while keeping South Carolina off the boards, a near-impossible task given the Gamecocks’ rebounding prowess.
Prediction: Gamecocks Continue the Streak
Everything points toward another South Carolina win — and likely in commanding fashion. Expect the Gamecocks to use this game as a statement, continuing their dominance over Clemson and sharpening their chemistry before entering tougher nonconference matchups.
Projected Score:
South Carolina 86, Clemson 58
With the team firing on all cylinders and Staley’s leadership setting the tone, the Gamecocks appear poised not just to extend their rivalry streak, but to reinforce why they remain one of the most feared teams in college basketball.
“We don’t take any game for granted,” Johnson said. “Clemson’s next — and we’re ready.”
