Gamecocks Keep Rolling: Tournebize Shines, Edwards and Okot Dominate in 76–57 Win Over Alabama
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — For the South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball team, impact minutes are proving just as crucial as starter contributions late in the 2025-26 season — and Alicia Tournebize’s bench lift is becoming a valuable piece of that depth.
In a convincing 76–57 victory over No. 25 Alabama on Thursday night, the Gamecocks showcased both star power and key complementary efforts in a performance that further solidified their status near the top of the national landscape.
Balanced Attack Fueled by Edwards and Okot
The Gamecocks (26-2, 12-1 SEC) came out strong in Tuscaloosa, opening on an early 12–2 scoring run that set the tone and never looked back. Defense was dominant from the outset — South Carolina forced multiple turnovers early and held the Crimson Tide to inefficient shooting throughout the night.
Leading the charge was Joyce Edwards, who spearheaded South Carolina’s offense with a 23-point, 12-rebound double-double — her scoring and rebounding anchoring a balanced Gamecock attack. Edwards’ presence in the paint and ability to convert second-chance opportunities helped keep the Tide at bay.
Alongside her, Madina Okot delivered a forceful performance of her own, finishing with 16 points and 16 rebounds, while also contributing multiple blocks and energy plays that helped tilt momentum Carolina’s way.
Bench Contribution: Tournebize and Team Depth Step Up
While Edwards and Okot set the tone, Alicia Tournebize continued to stretch her role as a rising contributor off the bench. The French recruit — who joined the Gamecocks after a notable youth and international career overseas — is steadily carving out meaningful minutes as the team navigates lineup adjustments and fatigue late in the season.
Tournebize’s presence adds valuable size and versatility to a Carolina bench that has been reshaped this year due to injuries and roster turnover. Head coach Dawn Staley has emphasized improving depth as a priority, and Tournebize’s impact exemplifies that effort.
Team Performance Highlights
- Defensive lockdown: South Carolina limited Alabama to just 57 points, tying a season low in opponent scoring and showcasing a punishing defensive identity.
- Balanced scoring: Nine of the ten Gamecocks who took the floor scored, demonstrating a multi-faceted offense beyond the leading performers.
- Rebounding edge: Carolina controlled the glass, out-rebounding Alabama and securing a significant advantage in points in the paint.
What This Means for the Gamecocks
This win marked South Carolina’s seventh straight victory, keeping the Gamecocks firmly within title conversations in one of women’s college basketball’s deepest seasons. Their efficient play against a ranked opponent reiterates their championship credentials as the NCAA Tournament approaches.
The team now turns its focus toward future SEC matchups and further postseason preparation, while continuing to integrate younger contributors like Tournebize into its rotation.
