South Carolina closed out its exhibition slate on a strong note Thursday night, defeating North Carolina in an encouraging performance that offered several key takeaways for Dawn Staley’s squad.
Maryam Dauda Steps Up
After seeing limited minutes in the win over Anderson, Maryam Dauda took full advantage of her opportunity against the Tar Heels. Staley got her involved early, and the redshirt junior responded with an energetic outing — 10 points, five rebounds, and a block — while showing confidence and control on both ends. Dauda also dished out a slick assist to Agot Makeer for a layup, earning praise from her head coach.
“I knew Maryam was going to play well,” Staley said.
Ta’Niya Latson Finding Her Groove
Transfer guard Ta’Niya Latson looked more comfortable as the game progressed, shaking off a slow start to show flashes of her elite scoring touch. After deferring to her teammates early, she turned on the aggressiveness late in the first half, attacking the rim and creating for others. Latson finished with 19 points on 7-of-12 shooting, along with three assists — a promising sign that she’s nearing full rhythm in Staley’s system.
Latson’s adjustment period isn’t quite finished, but she’s clearly getting closer to mastering the balance between playmaking and taking over offensively.
Agot Makeer’s Learning Curve
Freshman Agot Makeer, who impressed with 16 points against Anderson, found the going tougher against a deeper and more physical Tar Heels team. She tallied four points, two rebounds, and two assists, but also committed five turnovers under pressure from North Carolina’s length and quickness.
Still, Makeer’s potential was evident in spurts — a few smooth drives, pinpoint passes, and solid defensive possessions stood out. Her long-range accuracy lagged (0-for-3 from deep), partly because she repeatedly set up behind the NBA three-point line rather than the collegiate arc.
“Freshman. Just careless with the ball,” Staley said. “I think we need to make some adjustments with her as far as getting the Highlighters to play a little bit more aggressive.”
With the exhibition schedule wrapped up, the Gamecocks head into the regular season showing depth, versatility, and plenty of promise — especially as new faces like Latson, Dauda, and Makeer continue to settle into their roles.
