As game day approaches, three critical questions surrounding player availability are dominating the conversation: Will Agot Makeer be cleared to play following her concussion? Can Alicia Tournebize suit up? And what about Valerie Nainima, the former South Carolina standout from 2009-2011?
Agot Makeer’s Concussion Status Under Watch
The most pressing concern centers on Agot Makeer and her recovery from a concussion. Concussion protocols in women’s basketball have become increasingly stringent, requiring players to pass through multiple stages of evaluation before receiving medical clearance to return to competition.
Makeer’s status remains uncertain as she works through the league’s concussion protocol. The process typically involves a gradual return to activity, beginning with light aerobic exercise and progressing through non-contact drills before full-contact practice participation. Only after successfully completing all stages and receiving clearance from medical professionals can a player return to game action.
The team’s medical staff will make the final determination on Makeer’s availability, likely waiting until closer to tip-off to announce their decision. Her presence—or absence—could significantly impact the team’s game plan against Providence.
Alicia Tournebize’s Playing Status in Question
Adding to the uncertainty is Alicia Tournebize’s questionable status for the Providence matchup. While specific details about her condition haven’t been fully disclosed, her likelihood of playing appears to be a game-time decision.
Tournebize’s potential absence would require coaching staff to adjust rotations and potentially rely more heavily on bench players to fill the void. The team is likely preparing contingency plans for both scenarios—with and without her in the lineup.
Valerie Nainima: The South Carolina Connection
Valerie Nainima brings an intriguing storyline to this matchup with her history at South Carolina, where she competed from 2009-2011. Her collegiate experience with the Gamecocks program adds a layer of familiarity and veteran presence that could prove valuable.
Nainima’s time at South Carolina came during an important developmental period for the program, and her experience in high-level competition could be particularly valuable if either Makeer or Tournebize are unable to play. Her ability to step into an expanded role may be tested depending on how the availability questions shake out.
Looking Ahead
As the team prepares to face Providence, these roster uncertainties create both challenges and opportunities. The coaching staff must remain flexible, preparing multiple game plans while hoping for the best-case scenario of full roster availability.
Updates on all three players are expected closer to game time, with Makeer’s concussion clearance being the most time-sensitive decision. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as tip-off approaches to see which lineup takes the court against Providence.
