COLUMBIA, S.C. — The No. 3 South Carolina Gamecocks will play host to the Providence Friars in a key non-conference women’s basketball matchup on Sunday, December 28, 2025. The contest at Colonial Life Arena highlights South Carolina’s final game before league play and gives fans a chance to see two very different programs meet on the same court.
Game Time & Viewing Info
- Date: Sunday, December 28, 2025
- Tip-off: 12:00 PM ET in Columbia, South Carolina.
- TV Channel: SEC Network will broadcast the game nationally, giving fans across the country access to live coverage.
- Live Stats & Audio: In-arena stats and live audio options are available for ticket holders and streamers through South Carolina athletics platforms.
At the moment, official radio announcers for this specific game have not been publicly listed, but most Gamecocks home games on the SEC Network include a radio broadcast via local affiliates and streaming through official USC platforms.
Announcers
Networks typically announce TV commentator teams closer to game day. Historically, SEC Network women’s basketball broadcasts pair a play-by-play announcer with a color analyst (former player or coach) and sometimes a sideline reporter, but the exact voices for this matchup are not yet published. Expect national talent assigned by ESPN/SEC Network for this key mid-season game.
Probable Starting Fives
Both teams have set rotations based on recent lineups and roster info:
🔹 South Carolina Gamecocks (Projected)
South Carolina’s roster shows a deep and experienced group. Likely starters include:
- Joyce Edwards (F) — Offensive focal point and consistent scorer.
- Madina Okot (C) — Interior presence and rebounding leader.
- Ta’Niya Latson (G) — Veteran guard with scoring versatility.
- Tessa Johnson (G) — Steady perimeter threat.
- Raven Johnson (G) — Senior guard directing the offense.
This five combines scoring, ball distribution, and height, giving South Carolina a balanced lineup that has helped the Gamecocks to a strong 12-1 overall record.
🔹 Providence Friars (Typical Rotation)
Providence’s scorers and primary contributors generally include:
- Sabou Gueye (G) — Leading scorer and offensive catalyst.
- Orlagh Gormley (G) — Playmaker and backcourt leader.
- Nalani Kaysia (F) — Size and secondary scoring option.
- Mariana Padilla (G) — Perimeter defender and ball handler.
- Audrey Shields (G/F) — Versatility on both ends.
Providence plays a balanced attack but will need big games from its core to keep pace with South Carolina.
Injury & Availability Updates
South Carolina
- The Gamecocks dealt with some personnel challenges earlier in the season. Notably, senior forward Chloe Kitts will miss the entire 2025-26 season after suffering a torn ACL, removing a key frontcourt contributor who was a major part of last year’s national championship run.
- South Carolina’s bench depth has been tested at points due to injuries and absences, but most players have returned to full participation as the season has progressed, with the team trending toward healthier availability for this matchup.
Providence
- Providence’s roster list does not report major injuries to its primary contributors ahead of this game. The Friars have maintained a relatively consistent rotation and do not appear to be missing key players due to health issues.
What’s at Stake
For South Carolina, this matchup wraps up the non-conference schedule and gives the Gamecocks another chance to fine-tune rotations and build momentum before Southeastern Conference play begins. Providence, sitting with a record around 8-5, views this contest as a valuable opportunity to challenge a top-ranked opponent and gain experience against elite competition. (ESPN.com)
Fans should expect a competitive atmosphere at Colonial Life Arena and a robust broadcast on SEC Network, with detailed stats and storylines available through official score feeds and live coverage on game day.
