South Carolina is still active in the transfer portal, signaling that isn’t fully satisfied with her roster just yet. But even as potential additions loom, the bigger question remains: what will the Gamecocks’ rotation actually look like when the season tips off?
A closer breakdown of the roster reveals a team with clarity in the backcourt—and real uncertainty in the frontcourt.
Backcourt: Stability, Talent… and One Big Decision
If there’s one area where South Carolina feels settled, it’s the guard rotation.
At point guard, Maddy McDaniel stands alone as the only true floor general, making her role almost non-negotiable. Alongside her, Tessa Johnson is expected to continue as a starter heading into her senior year, while Agot Makeer looks primed to build on her breakout NCAA tournament run as a versatile two-way wing.
“This rotation seems pretty straightforward,” and that’s not an exaggeration.
But the most intriguing piece might be freshman Jerzy Robinson. Talent-wise, she already looks capable of starting. Still, the expectation is that Staley will ease her into the system.
“On her own, Robinson is probably good enough to start right away, but Dawn Staley will probably bring her off the bench so there is less pressure on her to produce immediately.”
That decision reflects a pattern: Staley prioritizes long-term growth over early-season flashes. And if Robinson develops as expected, this “bench role” might not last long.
Frontcourt: Talent Isn’t the Problem—Fit Is
While the guards feel settled, the frontcourt is anything but.
“The frontcourt is much more of a jumble. It’s not just about finding the best forward and post, it’s about finding the pairs that play best together.”
That single line defines South Carolina’s biggest challenge.
Chloe Kitts and Joyce Edwards are clearly among the team’s best players—and they’ve already proven they can coexist. But there’s a catch: size.
“They are a small frontcourt without much rim protection.”
That limitation becomes glaring against bigger, more traditional lineups. Edwards, for instance, can dominate smaller opponents but faces a different reality against elite size.
“Edwards has no problem playing the post against smaller teams (like UConn), but it’s asking too much of her to play against big, traditional posts.”
This is where the rest of the frontcourt enters the equation.
- Alicia Tournebize brings size and versatility, but strength remains the question. A full offseason in development could change everything.
- Adhel Tac offers rebounding and interior finishing—when healthy.
- Kelsi Andrews, coming off injury, represents upside but also uncertainty.
Each player adds something different, but none is a perfect solution. And that’s exactly the problem.
The Kitts Factor: Starter… or Secret Weapon?
Even Kitts, one of the team’s most reliable players, isn’t a lock to start every game.
“Kitts has earned the right to start, but if she is less than 100% at the start of the season, it could be tempting to bring her off the bench.”
That potential move isn’t about demotion—it’s about strategy.
Bringing Kitts off the bench would give Staley flexibility and instantly elevate the second unit. It’s a classic coaching chess move: sacrifice a traditional starting five for better overall balance.
The Real Question: Identity vs. Matchups
Ultimately, South Carolina’s lineup dilemma comes down to philosophy.
“The starting lineup comes down to Dawn Staley’s preference. Does she want to start small with her best five and bring size off the bench? Or does she want to start a more traditional lineup and bring an impact player off the bench?”
That decision will shape everything—from tempo to defensive identity to late-game matchups.
Final Analysis
This isn’t a roster lacking talent—it’s a roster overflowing with options. But options can create as many problems as they solve.
The backcourt gives South Carolina a stable foundation. The frontcourt, however, could define the ceiling of the entire season.
If Staley finds the right combinations, this team has championship potential. If not, lineup inconsistencies—especially against bigger opponents—could become a recurring issue.
And with the transfer portal still in play, don’t be surprised if this “jumble” isn’t finished evolving just yet.
