South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley broke down the Gamecocks’ dominant 106–56 win over Winthrop on Wednesday, offering insight into the team’s progress, mindset, and emerging identities. Here’s a full breakdown of her postgame comments.
Defensive Play: Strong Moments, but Still Work to Do
Asked about the defense behind the high-scoring night, Staley said the team was solid in stretches but not fully locked in throughout.
“I think we had moments where we weren’t connected, and I think that’s attributed to Winthrop and how they moved us around,” she explained. “They got ball reversals when they wanted. They made us play in the shot clock for a long time. And sometimes, we got a little disconnected — stuff we just continue to have to work on.”
Three Gamecocks Hit 20+ Points — First Time in a Decade
For the first time since 2014, South Carolina had three players score 20 or more points, and Staley said it was a mix of intentional play and natural flow.
“I thought Ta’Niya (Latson) got off to a quick start — just getting down the floor, making layups, and then, she got a three going. Madina (Okot) was cleaning up a lot of stuff. And we were intentional about getting her the ball, as well. Joyce (Edwards) is always going to be hovering around 20 points. I just like the fact that we were very efficient from those three players.”
She also credited the younger players for embracing their roles.
“I was really proud of our young players, who are giving it what they got. Ayla (McDowell)’s coming along… she plays to what we want. And I like that.”
Staley added that Tessa Johnson’s impact goes beyond what shows up on the stat sheet.
“She’s not pressing… she’s playing really good basketball.”
On Ta’Niya Latson’s Confidence and Pressure
Latson recently mentioned a conversation with Raven Johnson about giving herself grace. Staley agreed that the former national scoring leader naturally carries pressure.
“Yeah, of course,” she said. “When you’ve led the nation in scoring, any type of drop-off is concerning to the person that has been that.”
But Staley emphasized how much Latson has expanded her game.
“I think she increased her chances of being a pro because of what she’s doing on the defensive side of the ball… she’s shooting over 50 percent from the floor. That’s what teams are looking for.”
While the 20-point benchmark still matters to Latson psychologically, Staley said she’s impressed with the guard’s growth as a passer and all-around playmaker.
Responding After Southern Cal: No Letdown
This matchup came after a taxing showdown with Southern Cal — a spot where a flat performance would’ve been understandable.
Staley thought the start could’ve been stronger, but said the group continues to work toward a shared identity.
“This team is trying to find their identity. They really are. And they’re fighting for it… I’m proud of this team. This team hasn’t really reached its potential yet. I think we’re getting a little bit closer… it’s coming.”
Madina Okot’s Dominance in the Paint
South Carolina crushed Winthrop 70–20 in points in the paint, and Staley said Madina Okot is a major part of that.
“We need Madina to be dominant… every time she steps on the floor,” Staley said. “She’s just getting more and more comfortable… I like her rebounding… being efficient… taking shots and being aggressive.”
She added that Okot will need to keep that same edge Sunday and through next week’s schedule.
How Okot and Latson Are Adjusting Long-Term
Staley said both players are progressing well but still have room to grow.
“They aren’t where they used to be, and they’re not where they need to be — or where they’re going to be,” she explained. The staff continues to guide them through film, conversation, and on-court reps.
Pressure is part of the deal at South Carolina, Staley admitted.
“There are a lot of critics… But their ‘why’ always goes back to why they came here… to put them in a better position to being pros.”
She praised their maturity and coachability, noting both are “listeners” who “want to be great.”
Staley also revealed a special guest is coming soon:
“We got Aliyah (Boston) coming in next week, and Madina’s excited… she’ll work with her a little bit.”
Could Okot Return Next Season?
With NCAA eligibility rules varying for international players, Staley said the staff will absolutely advocate for Okot to return.
“Yeah, we’re gonna fight like heck,” she said. If granted another year, Staley believes Okot would be “a top-five pick” in the WNBA.
