As the showdown between No. 2 South Carolina and No. 8 Southern Cal closes in, the conversation surrounding the bicoastal rivalry known as “The Real SC” has reached a fever pitch. Both programs enter Saturday night’s matchup undefeated, but according to one national voice, there is a clear favorite — and her name is Dawn Staley.
Sports analyst Courtney Crown recently opened up about the highly anticipated matchup, revealing her deep respect for Staley and the culture she has built in Columbia. With the Gamecocks preparing for their first ranked test of the season in Los Angeles, Crown didn’t hesitate when asked who she believes has the edge.
“It’s hard to pick against Dawn Staley in this matchup,” Crown said. “I see her getting her first ranked win of the season.”
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A Clash of Styles and a Claim for Identity
The bicoastal series, branded as “The Real SC,” has created an intense narrative:
Which “USC” truly owns the initials?
And which program can stake its claim through physicality, execution, and national dominance?
South Carolina, already 3-0, enters the matchup with one of the most imposing frontcourts in college basketball. Led by freshman sensation Joyce Edwards, veteran guard play, and a defensive identity that suffocates opponents, Staley’s team has looked every bit like a championship contender.
Southern Cal, meanwhile, features one of the country’s most explosive backcourts, even without injured superstar Juju Watkins. The Trojans rely on pace, spacing, and shot-making — a sharp contrast to Staley’s paint-first power.
But Crown believes experience, discipline, and coaching are the difference-makers.
Crown’s Confidence in Staley: “She Shows Up in Big Moments”
Courtney Crown emphasized one point repeatedly: big games belong to Dawn Staley.
“Dawn has built a culture where ranked matchups aren’t moments of pressure — they’re moments of identity,” Crown said during her interview. “Her players don’t shrink under lights. They rise to them.”
Crown pointed to Staley’s resume, including multiple national titles, consistent Final Four appearances, and a roster packed with players who have championship mentality.
“These are the games Dawn lives for. These are the games her teams prepare for,” Crown added.
Why Crown Gives the Edge to South Carolina
Crown outlined three reasons she believes South Carolina will walk away with the win:
- Frontcourt dominance
USC will struggle to match South Carolina’s size and physicality in the paint. - Defensive discipline
Staley’s teams rarely beat themselves, and their ability to limit three-pointers could disrupt USC’s rhythm. - Coaching advantage
“In a close game, coaching matters — and Dawn Staley is unmatched,” Crown said.
A Chance for a Statement Win
The Gamecocks are aiming for their first ranked victory of the season, and doing so on the road — in Los Angeles, on national television — would send a message across the country.
For Staley, it’s more than just another early-season test. It’s an opportunity to reinforce South Carolina’s identity, silence doubt about roster depth, and plant the Gamecock flag firmly in “The Real SC” rivalry.
Crown’s Final Take
When asked for her prediction, Crown didn’t hesitate.
“South Carolina takes this one,” she said. “Dawn Staley is built for games like this.”
As the lights shine bright in Crypto.com Arena, one thing is certain:
The first chapter in the bicoastal battle for “The Real SC” is set to be a thriller — and according to Crown, the Gamecocks are walking in with the upper hand.
