Gamecocks Weekend Recap: Clutch Players, Big Questions & One Must-See Play!
After a dominant win over Georgia and a tough loss to Texas, South Carolina women’s basketball walks away with plenty to analyze. Let’s break down the standout performances, burning questions, and a highlight-worthy moment from the weekend.
Three Clutch Players
MiLaysia Fulwiley – The Gamecocks’ Spark
- Vs. Georgia: 25 minutes, 13 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals, 1 block
- Vs. Texas: 21 minutes, 13 points, 3 assists, 3 steals, 2 rebounds
No question—MiLaysia Fulwiley was the Gamecocks’ offensive engine in both games. Against Texas, she looked every bit like the player who stole the show in last year’s SEC Tournament Championship against LSU. If she hadn’t missed nearly four minutes in the fourth quarter due to arm pain, South Carolina may have walked away with the win.
Chloe Kitts – The Reliable Hustler
- Vs. Georgia: 22 minutes, 11 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 block, 1 steal
- Vs. Texas: 24 minutes, 9 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists
No matter the opponent, Chloe Kitts brings the same relentless energy. Even against a size disadvantage versus Texas, she kept battling on both ends of the court. She’s proving to be one of the most consistent players on this roster.
Tessa Johnson – Stepping Up in Big Moments
- Vs. Georgia: 23 minutes, 12 points, 3 rebounds, 2 steals, 1 block
- Vs. Texas: 18 minutes, 7 points, 3 rebounds, 1 steal
After a short shooting slump, Tessa Johnson found her rhythm against Georgia. She missed a critical game-tying layup against Texas, but let’s not forget—she also made several huge plays that put South Carolina in that position to begin with.
Two Burning Questions
1. Who is South Carolina’s Go-To Crunch-Time Lineup?
When the Gamecocks needed a bucket in the closing moments against Texas, Dawn Staley went with Raven Johnson, Te-Hina Paopao, Tessa Johnson, and Sania Feagin. Staley explained that she wanted to mix things up, and it did result in a good look for Tessa Johnson.
But here’s the question—where was Fulwiley? Joyce Edwards? Chloe Kitts?
The reality is, South Carolina has eight players who all bring something valuable to a final possession. But at some point, a more defined crunch-time lineup would help. Staley and her staff know what works, but perhaps more reps with the four-guard look in practice could be beneficial.
2. How Badly Is South Carolina Going to Beat Florida?
Let’s be honest—the last thing a struggling Florida Gators squad wants to see is an angry, highly motivated South Carolina team coming off a loss. This could get ugly—fast.
One Must-See Play
Sometimes, it’s all about the small moments. In this case, Chloe Kitts delivered a brilliant tap pass to a cutting Joyce Edwards, who finished it off with an easy layup.
“YES JOYCE!! 👏 What a pass from Chloe 🤯”
📺 ESPN pic.twitter.com/H6x5hUMcFW
— South Carolina Women’s Basketball (@GamecockWBB)
What made it even better? Collin Murray-Boyles made nearly the same touch pass just a week earlier.
Up Next: South Carolina vs. Florida
The Gamecocks still control their SEC destiny, and after this weekend, one thing is clear—this team is built to respond. Thursday’s showdown with Florida is a chance to make a statement.
Tip-off: Thursday, 7:00 PM | Broadcast: SEC Network
