Jordan Lee’s Move to South Carolina: How Her Professional Mindset Fits Dawn Staley’s Vision

Jordan Lee’s arrival at South Carolina has given Dawn Staley a closer look at a player whose preparation, attention to detail and professional ambitions could make her an important part of the Gamecocks’ plans.

Staley was already familiar with Lee, having recruited the former top-10 prospect out of high school before she chose Texas. Their teams also met six times during Lee’s first two collegiate seasons. However, bringing the guard into South Carolina’s program revealed something unexpected: Lee’s remarkable commitment to organization extends well beyond basketball.

Staley discovered the extent of Lee’s habits while exploring her room, which the coaching staff sometimes uses when hosting recruits.

“When we have recruits come in, we utilize her room because it’s clean, it’s organized,” Staley said. “And then you start snooping around, and I’m like, What is this? I see this booklet, all of these pictures in it of outfits.”

Lee reportedly uses a notebook to keep track of her schedule, including meals, assignments, appointments and personal responsibilities. Her teammates have noticed the habit, too.

“She carries a notebook everywhere,” Chloe Kitts said. “She has a notebook, and it has her to-do list, and she carries it everywhere. Every time I see her, she has it in her hand.”

Lee acknowledged her planning habits, explaining that she uses the notebook primarily to prepare for important commitments. Her approach reflects the discipline she believes student-athletes need to balance competing responsibilities.

“I feel like as a student-athlete, you have to be proactive,” Lee said, describing how she schedules personal appointments months ahead. For Lee, staying organized is simply a way to keep everything moving in the right direction.

Why South Carolina Was the Right Choice

Lee’s transfer decision was driven by more than a change of scenery. After reaching the Final Four in both seasons at Texas, she wanted to continue competing at the highest level while positioning herself for a professional basketball career.

South Carolina’s championship history made the program an attractive destination.

“Three national championships in the last 10 years, it’s a great history to be a part of, for sure,” Lee said.

Despite her status as one of the transfer portal’s highly regarded players, Lee visited only South Carolina before making her decision. That confidence, however, followed careful consideration and extensive questions about her potential role.

Staley said Lee was deliberate throughout the recruitment process, even reaching out again after her visit to seek additional information.

The coach also sees an opportunity to expand Lee’s offensive development while preparing her for the WNBA.

“She wants to be a pro, so we want to pour into her,” Staley said, explaining that South Carolina hopes to introduce elements that can complement what Lee learned at Texas.

Lee’s sophomore season demonstrated her progress, with her scoring average rising from 5.8 points per game as a freshman to 13.2 points in her second year. She now hopes to build on that improvement within Staley’s system.

Defense Could Be Lee’s Biggest Contribution

South Carolina also has an immediate need for Lee’s defensive abilities. The departures of Bree Hall and Raven Johnson left significant responsibilities on the perimeter, creating an opportunity for new players to strengthen the Gamecocks’ defensive identity.

Lee and Agot Makeer could help restore the pressure that has characterized South Carolina’s defense in previous seasons.

Staley has been particularly impressed with Lee’s defensive instincts and understanding of the game.

“She’s an elite defender,” Staley said. “Like, elite, elite.”

However, the coach expects Lee to contribute offensively as well, recognizing that her responsibilities at South Carolina could be greater than those she previously carried at Texas.

Lee’s familiarity with South Carolina’s playing style is another advantage. Staley noted that the guard remembers plays from their previous matchups, demonstrating her ability to recognize patterns and anticipate what opponents might run.

A New Chapter With Professional Goals

Lee has expressed enthusiasm about joining the Gamecocks and working with Staley, whose experience and attention to player development appeal to her ambitions.

“It has been awesome,” Lee said. “There is something so special in somebody that has done everything. She is very intentional on what she asks you to do.”

South Carolina’s emphasis on preparing players for the professional level aligns closely with Lee’s long-term goals. If she combines her scoring development with the defensive excellence Staley expects, she could become one of the Gamecocks’ most valuable additions.

South Carolina is scheduled to host Benedict in an exhibition at Colonial Life Arena on October 23 before opening its regular season against Maryland in Paris on November 2.

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