South Carolina’s 2025-26 Outlook Gets Major Update with Key Changes
When we first previewed South Carolina’s 2025-26 season on April 7, the roster seemed relatively set — but in less than 24 hours, that projection was already outdated. A major incoming transfer, a surprise departure, and some high-profile targets still in play have reshaped the Gamecocks’ outlook. So, here’s the updated version — though it, too, might not stay current for long.
Scholarship Situation
Four players had decisions to make regarding the WNBA Draft: Sakima Walker, Maryam Dauda, Raven Johnson, and Ashlyn Watkins.
None of the four entered the draft, but Sakima Walker made a surprise move by entering the transfer portal. Due to an unexpected extra year of eligibility from an NCAA juco waiver, she opted for a fresh start. As of now, Walker has not announced her next destination.
The current transfer tally: South Carolina has brought in Ta’Niya Latson and lost both Walker and MiLaysia Fulwiley. That leaves the Gamecocks with 11 committed scholarships and four open spots. However, head coach Dawn Staley is known for rarely using all 15.
Projected Starting Five
- Point Guard – Raven Johnson (RS Senior)
- Shooting Guard – Ta’Niya Latson (Senior)
- Wing – Tessa Johnson (Junior)
- Forward – Chloe Kitts (Senior)
- Post – Joyce Edwards (Sophomore)
Breakdown: While losing a player as gifted as Fulwiley hurts, her exit actually clarifies the lineup. Latson steps into the shooting guard role without competition for minutes. Although the frontcourt of Kitts and Edwards is on the smaller side, this group could end up being the fastest starting five in the country. If the Gamecocks can land a top-tier post player from the portal, she could easily slot into the starting center role.
Backup Forwards
- Ashlyn Watkins (Senior)
- Adhel Tac (RS Sophomore)
- Maryam Dauda (RS Senior)
- Ayla McDowell (Freshman)
Breakdown: Dawn Staley has made it clear — South Carolina is shopping for size in the transfer portal. There’s growing buzz that she’s found a big target, but no commitment yet. With Watkins likely out for at least the first half of the season, the Gamecocks might need two post players, just to maintain depth.
Backup Guards
- Maddy McDaniel (Sophomore)
- Agot Makeer (Freshman)
Breakdown: With Fulwiley gone, the rotation is less crowded, but there’s now a clear need for another guard. While McDowell is listed as a forward, she has the versatility to swing over to the wing. Makeer can cover either the two or three spot, but that still leaves only six players to fill three perimeter positions.
Transfer Portal Watch
The Gamecocks have already pulled off a huge move by landing Ta’Niya Latson, arguably the best — or second-best — player available, depending on how you compare her with Olivia Miles.
The next big name in South Carolina’s sights: Madina Okot of Mississippi State. She’s widely considered one of the top post players in the portal and would address the team’s most pressing need. Though she hasn’t committed, the interest is mutual.
Additionally, Gianna Kneepkens, formerly of Utah, is expected to visit. She averaged 19.3 points per game last season and narrowly missed joining the elite 50/40/90 club. While adding Kneepkens might feel like overkill, South Carolina still needs another guard, and her scoring punch would be a luxury any team would love to have.
