In the dominant 121-49 victory over Queens, Adhel Tac stood out, recording what many considered her first real “breakout” double-double. With the Gamecocks firing on all cylinders, her contributions helped underline the depth and talent on the roster.
Though detailed box-score numbers weren’t emphasized in all the coverage, Tac’s impact went beyond raw stats—her presence in the paint, defensive efforts, and ability to contribute in transition were clearly noticed. The win not only reinforced South Carolina’s dominance but also spotlighted Tac as a rising post force.
What Dawn Staley Praised
Coach Dawn Staley was quick to speak about Tac’s development and potential. Staley high praise for Tac after the game, emphasizing both her development and the significance of her performance. In earlier comments:
“Adhel understands everything that’s happening. Every single thing. She plays like a point guard. When you really listen to her, she’s telling everybody where they need to be.”On3+1 Staley continued: “I’m just happy that basketball finally has repaid her for the work that she’s put in. You don’t often get rewarded for the work that you put in.”On3+1 She singled out specific aspects of Tac’s growth: “She’s always been one that can rebound and block shots, but her rebounding outside of the area, power dribbling and making a basket. It’s great to see from her.”
In other words, Staley views Tac’s performance as more than stats — it’s a tangible evolution in her game and mindset.
“I’m super excited about Adhel … I equate her defensively to Aliyah Boston. I mean, she’s communicative. She has a high IQ. … From an offensive standpoint, I really feel like she can impose her will. She has great footwork, great hands, great IQ, [can] kick it out. Like I’m really excited about her progression and what she’ll bring to our program.” (SI)
While those remarks preceded the Queens game, they set the backdrop: Tac is seen by Staley as someone capable of elevating her game significantly.
After the Queens blow-out, Staley again referenced Tac’s contributions in context of the team’s bench strength and future upside — noting how the overall depth (including players like Tac) gives the Gamecocks a strategic advantage.
Why This Matters
1. Depth & Rotation: The performance by Tac adds to South Carolina’s narrative of having one of the deepest rosters in women’s college basketball. Having a post player who can deliver meaningful minutes and show double-figure rebounds and scoring is huge for sustaining the program’s high level.
2. Future Star in the Making: Tac’s ability to impact both ends of the floor—something Staley emphasized—is not just about this game, but about the years ahead. Staley’s comparison to a former great (Aliyah Boston) signals that Tac’s ceiling is very high.
3. Timing & Momentum: Achieving this breakout in a lopsided win is beneficial. It gives Tac confidence and gives the coaching staff evidence that they can trust her in higher-stakes moments. It also sends a message to opponents: this isn’t just a one-man show—there are multiple players ready to step up.
Team Culture: Staley’s comments reflect the program’s ethos: hard work, understanding roles, and being ready when called upon. Tac embodies that in this moment.
What to Watch Going Forward
Consistency: Will Tac continue to deliver in subsequent games—especially against tougher opponents? Maintaining double-doubles or high-impact games will mark her growth.
Matchup flexibility: As a post player with good footwork and hands, can Tac handle different styles (physical centers, stretch bigs, mobile wings)?
Team integration: How Tac fits with the starters, how many minutes she logs, and how her role evolves will be critical. Staley’s praise suggests more opportunity is coming.
Impact on big games: The real measurement will come when the Gamecocks face elite competition. Will Tac’s contributions stand up under pressure?
Final Thoughts
The 121-49 win over Queens was already a testament to the team’s dominance, but hidden within that was the emergence of Adhel Tac as a meaningful contributor beyond her potential. Coach Dawn Staley’s comments before and after the game reflect a belief in Tac’s future, and the queen-sized stats from the blowout give credence to that belief.
In short: Tac isn’t just another player on a stacked roster—she’s a rising force. And with Staley’s endorsement, the expectation is that her game will keep leveling up.
