Maryland’s Biggest Strength and Demonstrated Better Shooting vs South Carolina’s Concerned Challenges

South Carolina women’s basketball has looked dominant in terms of talent and depth during its two exhibition victories, but some early warning signs deserve attention as the Gamecocks prepare to face No. 20 Maryland in Paris.

Dawn Staley’s team defeated College of Charleston 91-60 before overwhelming Benedict College 113-34. The results demonstrated the enormous athletic advantage South Carolina can create, but the performances also exposed questions about ball security, outside shooting, free-throw consistency and offensive organization.

Maryland, meanwhile, has completed two exhibitions of its own, defeating Virginia Tech 93-82 and No. 12 North Carolina 72-68. Those results suggest the Terrapins are entering the season with confidence and have already faced stronger competition.

The question is whether South Carolina’s weaknesses could become costly against a more experienced opponent.

1. Turnovers: South Carolina Must Improve Its Decision-Making

Ball security is arguably the biggest concern coming out of South Carolina’s exhibitions.

Against College of Charleston, the Gamecocks recorded only 12 assists on 33 made baskets, while committing more turnovers than assists. That raised questions about offensive chemistry and how effectively the team is creating opportunities for teammates.

Some of the struggles can be attributed to the coaching staff keeping the offensive system relatively simple during the exhibition. However, the concern remains because South Carolina cannot afford careless possessions against a team with Maryland’s defensive ability.

The Benedict game produced another 19 turnovers. Alicia Tournebize, Joyce Edwards, Oliviyah Edwards and Ashlyn Watkins accounted for 13 of those mistakes, while the guards were responsible for just six.

That breakdown is worth monitoring. The frontcourt players are expected to contribute through scoring, rebounding and passing, but they must become more comfortable making decisions under pressure.

There was some encouragement, however. South Carolina recorded 23 assists against Benedict, suggesting the ball movement was considerably better than in the Charleston exhibition. The challenge now is maintaining that improvement while reducing the turnovers.

2. Free-Throw Shooting and Three-Point Consistency Are Major Concerns

South Carolina’s shooting numbers against Benedict were not particularly encouraging.

The Gamecocks converted 24 of 36 free throws, a 66.7% success rate. For a team expected to attack the basket frequently and generate plenty of opportunities at the line, that percentage needs to improve.

The three-point performance was even more concerning. South Carolina made only five of 22 attempts, shooting 22.7% from beyond the arc.

Tessa Johnson provided the most reliable perimeter production, making three of five attempts. Kelsi Andrews and Justine Loubens also contributed one three-pointer each.

Several players who could become important perimeter threats struggled. Jordan Lee went 0-for-3, Agot Makeer finished 0-for-2, Ayla McDowell missed all four attempts, and Jerzy Robinson went 0-for-3.

The Charleston exhibition offered a more encouraging picture, with Jordan Lee making all four of her three-point attempts. The difference between those performances demonstrates why South Carolina needs greater consistency from game to game.

3. Maryland Has Demonstrated Better Shooting Discipline

Maryland’s exhibition performances provide an interesting contrast.

Against Virginia Tech, the Terrapins shot 50.8% from the field, 40% from three-point range and 80.6% from the free-throw line. They also committed 13 turnovers while recording nine assists.

Nunu Agara scored 20 points in her first appearance for Maryland, while Oluchi Okananwa led the team with 23. Bri McDaniel added 17 points in her return from injury, and Addi Mack contributed 11.

The Terrapins then defeated No. 12 North Carolina 72-68. They struggled more from the field, shooting 36.9%, and made just five of 17 three-point attempts. However, they converted 19 of 22 free throws, an impressive 86.4%.

Maryland also committed 13 turnovers against North Carolina, while recording 14 assists.

The important difference is that Maryland has consistently protected the basketball better than South Carolina did in its two exhibitions. The Terrapins also demonstrated that they can win when their perimeter shooting is not particularly effective.

4. Maryland’s Biggest Strength Could Be Its Balanced Offense

Nunu Agara is emerging as a major offensive weapon for the Terrapins. She scored at least 20 points in both exhibitions, finishing with 20 against Virginia Tech and 22 points with 11 rebounds against North Carolina.

Okananwa also demonstrated her scoring ability with 23 points in the Virginia Tech game, while McDaniel’s return provides another experienced option.

Maryland has depth of its own, with multiple players contributing across the two exhibitions. Against Virginia Tech, nine different Terrapins scored, and the coaching staff used 12 players.

The win over North Carolina was particularly valuable because it gave Maryland a chance to face a nationally ranked opponent before the regular season.

Coach Brenda Frese’s team also showed it can compete physically, outrebounding North Carolina 44-33. That will be important against a South Carolina frontcourt featuring Joyce Edwards, Chloe Kitts, Ashlyn Watkins and Alicia Tournebize.

5. South Carolina’s Depth Could Ultimately Make the Difference

Despite the concerns, there is a strong reason not to overreact to South Carolina’s exhibition statistics.

The Gamecocks have an impressive collection of athleticism, experience and frontcourt talent. Against Benedict, they collected 70 rebounds, recorded 23 assists and scored 68 points in the paint.

Jerzy Robinson also provided an encouraging performance, recording 17 points, 11 rebounds and five assists. Her ability to contribute in multiple areas could become increasingly important as the season progresses.

The biggest advantage South Carolina may possess is its ability to bring quality players off the bench. After dealing with limited depth in previous seasons, Staley once again has multiple options capable of changing the game.

The question is whether the team can maintain its intensity and discipline when facing an opponent capable of punishing mistakes.

Game Prediction: South Carolina Has the Advantage, but Maryland Will Make It Competitive

Maryland has earned respect with victories over Virginia Tech and North Carolina. Its improved free-throw shooting, balanced scoring and ability to limit turnovers make it a dangerous opening opponent.

However, South Carolina has more size, athleticism and depth, particularly around the basket. If the Gamecocks dominate the boards, establish their transition offense and avoid unnecessary turnovers, they should be able to control the matchup.

The biggest warning for Staley is that Maryland is unlikely to surrender possession as frequently as Benedict did. South Carolina will need to create good shots rather than relying entirely on athletic advantages.

My prediction: South Carolina 78, Maryland 68.

The Gamecocks should have enough talent to win, but Maryland’s experience and improved preparation could make this a much more competitive contest than South Carolina’s exhibition victories.

Ultimately, the opening game in Paris will provide the first meaningful indication of whether Staley’s team has addressed its early-season weaknesses.

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