Who Has the Best Players Between South Carolina and Maryland, According to ESPN?
The South Carolina Gamecocks and the Maryland Terrapins are set to clash on Friday in the Sweet Sixteen round of the women’s tournament.
The two teams last faced off in November 2023, when South Carolina dominated Maryland with a resounding 114-76 victory. Seven Gamecocks scored in double digits, with Te-Hina Paopao leading the way with 14 points.
ESPN recently ranked the top 25 players still competing in the tournament. So, which team boasts the best talent? Surprisingly, neither South Carolina nor Maryland had a player in the top 10.
The highest-ranked player from either team was Joyce Edwards, landing at No. 14.
“Edwards has come into her own for the Gamecocks this season, and they’ve enjoyed every bit of it as they’ve adjusted to life without posts Kamilla Cardoso (graduated) and Ashlyn Watkins (injured). While she uncharacteristically struggled in South Carolina’s second-round matchup against Indiana, Edwards put in a strong 22-point effort against Tennessee Tech. A confident, thriving Edwards will go far in helping the Gamecocks repeat as champions.” – Philippou
Next on the list was MiLaysia Fulwiley, ranked No. 18.
“Along with Edwards and Tessa Johnson, Fulwiley still helps form the most productive bench in the country and is South Carolina’s second-leading scorer.” – Creme
Maryland’s first and only player in the rankings was Shyanna Sellers, coming in at No. 21.
“Sellers was a standout in what was the game of the tournament so far. In the Terps’ double-overtime win over Alabama, Sellers finished with 28 points—including a set of clutch free throws that helped send the game into the second overtime period. Averaging 20 points, three rebounds, and two assists through the first two games of the tournament, she has proved to be one of the better all-around players in the country.” – Andrews
The final player to crack the list was Chloe Kitts, ranked No. 23.
“Kitts is the key player if the Gamecocks want to repeat as national champs this season.” – Creme
With four players ranked compared to Maryland’s one, South Carolina clearly has the stronger roster heading into this matchup. However, as history has shown, March Madness is full of surprises.
Caption:ESPN ranks the best players left in the women’s tournament—South Carolina dominates the list, but can Maryland pull off an upset? Click to find out!
