Dawn Staley Sends Strong Message After Gamecocks’ Statement Win Over Arkansas
COLUMBIA, S.C. – South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley made it clear after her team’s dominant 95-55 victory over Arkansas that the Gamecocks are built to bounce back.
“We don’t like to lose,” Staley said firmly, addressing her team’s mindset following their previous defeat to UConn. “This program is about responding, about competing, and about setting the standard every time we step on the court.”
The No. 6 Gamecocks (24-3, 12-1 SEC) wasted no time proving that point, putting together a commanding performance to remind the league why they remain a powerhouse in women’s college basketball.
A Statement Performance
After a 71-game home winning streak was snapped by UConn in an 87-58 loss, South Carolina entered the Arkansas game with something to prove. Joyce Edwards led the charge with 18 points, marking her third consecutive game as the team’s top scorer. MiLaysia Fulwiley provided a spark off the bench, pouring in 15 points, including 10 in a critical second-quarter run that helped the Gamecocks seize control.
“Our energy, our effort—everything was there tonight,” Fulwiley said after the win. “We knew we had to come out and make a statement.”
Chloe Kitts continued her strong form, securing her sixth double-double of the season with 10 points and a team-high 13 rebounds. Bree Hall added a season-high 14 points, while Tessa Johnson knocked down two key fourth-quarter three-pointers to finish in double figures.
Lockdown Defense and Team Chemistry
South Carolina’s defense suffocated Arkansas, holding SEC leading scorer Izzy Higginbottom to just 10 points—well below her 24-point average. The Gamecocks also tied a season-high with 57 rebounds and distributed the ball at a high level, recording a season-best 27 assists.
“This was a team effort,” Staley emphasized. “When we move the ball and play unselfishly, we’re at our best. Our defense set the tone, and we fed off of that energy.”
What’s Next for the Gamecocks?
With the win, South Carolina solidified its place at the top of the SEC standings, proving they remain a title contender despite the earlier setback. As the postseason looms, Staley’s squad looks poised to make another deep run.
“Our goal is always bigger than one game,” Staley said. “We take the lessons, we grow, and we keep pushing forward.”
The Gamecocks will look to carry this momentum into their next matchup as they continue their pursuit of an SEC championship and a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament.
