Columbia, SC — South Carolina women’s basketball head coach Dawn Staley offered insight into the status of incoming French prospect Alicia Tournebize, addressing questions about when the highly anticipated addition might join the Gamecocks roster.
Awaiting Clearance
While excitement builds around the 6-foot-7 forward’s commitment to South Carolina, Tournebize has not yet arrived in Columbia due to administrative processes that must be completed before she can officially join the program.
Staley acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the arrival timeline during her recent media availability, explaining that several procedural steps remain before Tournebize can make the transatlantic move to begin her collegiate career.
“We don’t know when she’s going to get here,” Staley said. “I think she has appointments, documentation that she needs in order to get here. But hopefully before school starts.”
Documentation and Immigration Process
The delay in Tournebize’s arrival stems from the necessary appointments and paperwork required for international student-athletes. These administrative requirements can be particularly complex during the holiday season, when government offices and processing centers may operate on reduced schedules.
For international prospects, the documentation process typically involves securing proper visa authorization, completing academic credential evaluations, and fulfilling various NCAA eligibility requirements. The timing of Tournebize’s release from her professional contract with Tango Bourges Basket on December 24—right in the midst of the holiday period—has likely contributed to the extended timeline.
High Expectations for the French Star
Despite the administrative hurdles, Staley’s enthusiasm about what Tournebize will bring to the program remains undiminished. The coach has been vocal about her belief that the teenage prospect represents a significant acquisition for the Gamecocks.
“Just super excited,” Staley said. “I think we got a gem of a player. She is 6-7. Athletic. I mean, she’s 18 years old. She’s definitely going to have to get in the weight to see Molly (Binetti).”
Staley’s reference to strength and conditioning coach Molly Binetti indicates that while Tournebize possesses elite size and athleticism, there will be a natural adjustment period as she transitions from European professional basketball to the collegiate game and adapts to the physical demands of SEC competition.
A Unique Skill Set
Tournebize brings a versatile offensive arsenal that has generated considerable excitement within the program. Her combination of height, shooting range, and defensive prowess makes her a rare prospect capable of impacting multiple facets of the game.
The French forward demonstrated her capabilities at the professional level with Tango Bourges Basket, where she competed against adult players, including some with WNBA experience. Her ability to earn playing time in such a competitive environment at just 18 years old speaks to her readiness for high-level basketball.
Spring Semester Target
With the spring semester approaching, South Carolina is hopeful that all necessary documentation can be processed in time for Tournebize to arrive before classes begin. This would allow her to integrate with the team during the heart of SEC play, though any immediate on-court contributions would depend on her conditioning, adjustment to the program’s systems, and NCAA eligibility status.
The optimal scenario would see Tournebize arriving soon enough to participate in practices and team activities, even if game action might be limited initially as she acclimates to American college basketball and builds chemistry with her new teammates.
Impact on Roster Dynamics
Tournebize’s eventual arrival will provide South Carolina with additional frontcourt depth and versatility at a time when the program is managing various roster considerations. With Chloe Kitts recovering from an ACL injury and questions surrounding other players’ availability and eligibility, Tournebize’s size and skill set could prove valuable as the season progresses.
Her ability to stretch defenses with three-point shooting while also protecting the rim defensively offers Coach Staley tactical flexibility in how she deploys her personnel, particularly in SEC play where size and versatility are paramount.
Looking Ahead
As South Carolina continues its pursuit of another national championship, the program eagerly awaits the completion of Tournebize’s documentation so she can begin the next chapter of her basketball journey. While the exact arrival date remains uncertain, the Gamecocks and their fanbase are counting down the days until the French prospect can officially call Columbia home.
For now, patience remains the watchword as administrative processes run their course, with everyone associated with the program hopeful that Tournebize will be walking through the doors of Colonial Life Arena sooner rather than later.
