The No. 3 South Carolina Gamecocks are set to host the Providence Friars on December 28, 2025 in what will be the first-ever meeting between these two programs in women’s basketball history. The game — slated to cap the Gamecocks’ non-conference slate — promises an intriguing clash between one of the nation’s elite teams and a Providence squad building momentum under a retooled roster.
A Historic First Showdown
Although South Carolina and Providence have never met on the court, the matchup carries natural interest because the Gamecocks sit among the top-ranked powers in the nation, while the Friars represent a growing mid-major program from the BIG EAST eager to make a statement on a big stage.
South Carolina comes into the game with a strong 12-1 record and in first place in the SEC, displaying both offensive firepower and defensive dominance this season. Providence, meanwhile, heads into its first true road test against an elite opponent with a roster that has seen significant turnover and infusion of new talent.
South Carolina: Dominant, Multi-Dimensional and Loaded with Talent
Style of Play
The Gamecocks under Dawn Staley feature an aggressive, balanced offensive attack and suffocating defense. They excel in:
- Paint dominance and rebounding, regularly outscoring opponents in the interior and controlling the glass.
- High efficiency scoring, with all five starters shooting over 50 % from the field.
- Disruptive defense, ranking among the national leaders in blocks and creating turnovers that fuel transition offense.
South Carolina’s team style centers on versatility — they can score from all three levels, force tempo changes, and lock in defensively when needed. The Gamecocks rank among the nation’s best in field goal percentage and paint scoring.
Key Players to Watch
Joyce Edwards (F)
- Leads the team in scoring and remains one of the most efficient offensive weapons — capable of scoring in traffic and stretching the floor.
- A focal point of South Carolina’s interior offense and transition attack.
Raven Johnson (G)
- The veteran point guard orchestrates the offense with elite court vision, averaging close to 6 assists per game, and contributes on both ends of the floor.
- Her leadership sets the tone for the Gamecocks’ tempo and execution.
Madina Okot (C)
- Dominant inside presence who leads the team in rebounding and anchors the paint defensively.
- Her ability to patrol the glass and alter shots makes South Carolina difficult to score on inside.
Tessa Johnson & Ta’Niya Latson
- Provide essential perimeter shooting and secondary scoring options, forcing defenses to respect both inside and out.
Strengths and Strategic Edge
- Offensive efficiency: Elite shooting and paint scoring make the Gamecocks hard to defend in half-court sets.
- Defensive disruption: High block and turnover rates translate to fastbreak opportunities.
- Depth: Even with some personnel out recently, the bench has stepped up, providing valuable minutes and maintaining intensity.
Possible Weaknesses / Concerns
While South Carolina’s roster is deep and talented, health and availability have been themes this season. Some rotational players have missed time with minor injury or illness, which has impacted lineup consistency at moments — though the team has still performed impressively.
Providence Friars: Emerging Competitor with Balanced Attack
Style of Play
The Friars have crafted a style built on efficiency and balanced scoring:
- A strong defensive philosophy, holding many opponents under 40 % from the field this season.
- A mix of returning contributors and new faces that emphasize ball movement and disciplined shot selection.
- Floor general leadership from Orlagh Gormley, whose assist and steal numbers highlight her all-around impact.
Players to Watch
Orlagh Gormley (G)
- Dynamic point guard and team leader in assists and steals, anchoring Providence’s backcourt.
- Her return from injury last season provides stability and improves offensive flow.
Meri Kanerva (F)
- A preseason All-BIG EAST selection, Kanerva brings interior scoring and presence on both ends.
Sabou Gueye & Payton Dunbar
- Versatile scoring threats who can make an impact in slashing and perimeter play.
Strengths and Strategic Edge
- Defensive consistency: Holding opponents to sub-40 % shooting reflects strong team discipline.
- Youth mixed with experience: A blend of freshmen and transfers has given Providence a fresh dynamic.
Potential Weaknesses
- Depth challenges: While talented, the Friars may face difficulty matching South Carolina’s depth and physicality, especially in the paint and on rebounds.
- Experience in hostile environments: This will be Providence’s first true road test of the season against top-tier competition, which could test their composure and execution.
What to Expect: Offsets and Matchups
South Carolina’s Edge
- Size and athleticism advantage inside with Okot and Edwards likely to control rebounds and second-chance points.
- Tempo control: The Gamecocks will look to push the pace and force Providence into transition, where mismatches could multiply.
- Experience against ranked teams: South Carolina’s recent victories over strong opponents suggest they are battle-tested — especially in high-pressure situations.
Providence’s Path to Success
- Limit turnovers and force contested shots.
- Rely on Gormley’s playmaking to generate efficient offense.
- Try to slow the game and play through set offenses to reduce South Carolina’s transition strengths.
Injury & Availability Notes
There are no high-profile injuries reported for South Carolina or Providence ahead of this matchup, but South Carolina has dealt with some minor absences due to injury or illness, resulting in increased bench minutes in recent games.
Providence enters mostly healthy, with the notable return of Gormley from last season’s injury having a positive impact on team chemistry and leadership.
Final Outlook
This first meeting between No. 3 South Carolina and Providence could serve as a signature non-conference game for the Friars and an opportunity for the Gamecocks to showcase their national title credentials. South Carolina’s depth, interior strength, and efficient scoring likely give them the edge, but Providence’s disciplined defense and emerging playmakers could keep the Friars competitive, especially in stretches where they force turnovers and convert in transition.
Whether this matchup becomes a competitive surprise or a showcase of elite talent, fans should be treated to high-level NCAA women’s basketball when these two teams tip off in late December.
