Markeshia Grant, who played two seasons for Dawn Staley, provides GamecockCentral readers with analysis of South Carolina women’s basketball.

South Carolina came out hot once again, dominating the first half against Oklahoma 45-28 . However, basketball is a game of runs and the Sooners made a run in the second half hitting several 3s to cut into the Gamecocks lead.

Markeshia Grant, who played two seasons for Dawn Staley, provides GamecockCentral readers with analysis of South Carolina women’s basketball.

South Carolina came out hot once again, dominating the first half against Oklahoma 45-28 . However, basketball is a game of runs and the Sooners made a run in the second half hitting several 3s to cut into the Gamecocks lead. But, South Carolina finished the game strong winning 93-75 to reach their sixth consecutive SEC Championship Title game, fueled by Joyce Edwards and MiLaysia Fulwiley.

Gamecock gam e highlights

South Carolina had five players in double figures (Sania, Chloe, Joyce, MiLaysia, and Tessa) , shot 47.4% from the floor, had 19 assists , dominated the paint, won the rebounding battle 42-41 , and had 7 steals . The bench showed up big adding 56 points with Maryam Dauda being a game-changer, helping hold Raegan Beers to just 7 points.

Standout Performances

Sania Feagin – The Anchor

Sania had 14 points on another efficient shooting day going 7-of-9 (77%)— hitting several crucial mid-range jumpers.

Chloe Kitts – Versatility at its Best

Chloe put her versatility on full display once again, knocking down mid-range jumpers, finishing put-backs, and setting up her teammates for easy buckets. She added 10 points, 4 rebounds, and 4 assists.

Point Guard Play

South Carolina’s point guard play was steady, with Paopao and Raven combining for 6 points, 8 assists, and just 1 turnover , controlling the tempo of the game.

Bench Production – Seatbelt Gang

South Carolina’s bench came up big against Oklahoma, delivering 56 bench points for the fourth time this season with key contributions from Joyce, MiLaysia, Tessa and Maryam.

Maryam Dauda – Game-Changer

Maryam was a game-changer adding 5 points, 3 rebounds, 3 steals, and 2 blocks. Her versatility showed up in the most crucial moments in the matchup with Raegan Beers. She battled hard in the paint, made Beers turn the ball over, scored on her, got her into foul trouble, and held her to just 7 points.

The Gamecocks look to carry this momentum into the SEC Championship game and secure their third straight title.

Up Next: South Carolina Gamecocks 29-3 vs. Texas Longhorns 31-2

The Rematch We’ve Been Waiting For: South Carolina vs. Texas

Dawn Staley. Vic Schaefer. South Carolina. Texas. No co-champions. No coin flip. This is for all the bragging rights—who is really the best team in the SEC? I personally think this is to solidify a No. 1 seed in the NCAA tournament. This is another chance to put the spotlight on two defensive powerhouses in women’s college basketball.

Key Matchups to Watch

Guard Play vs. Madison Booker

Guard Play vs. Rori Harmon

Post Play vs. Texas Post Play

Gamecocks’ Advantages

South Carolina’s depth, defensive intensity, speed, and athleticism give them the edge. To control the game, they must push the tempo and be ready for Texas’ full court man defense.

Keys to the Win

1. Keep the main thing, the main thing – Stay focused and control the pace.

2. Set the tone early – HIT FIRST, don’t let up, and keep the momentum for 40 minutes.

3. Lock in on defense – The Gamecocks’ stifling man-to-man defense holds teams more than 20+ points below their season average.

4. Bench production – South Carolina’s Seatbelt Gang has been dominating, leading the nation in bench points per game. Their depth will be crucial in this matchup.

5. Win the rebounding battle – When the gamecocks win the rebounding battle, they normally win the game. WIN THE PAINT!

6. Take care of the ball – Averaging 16.8 assists per game , ball movement will be key. Especially on the road in a tough environment.

7. Force turnovers – South Carolina forces about 17 TOs per game , while Texas averages 13.2 TOs per game.

8. Convert at the free-throw line – Texas is foul-prone averaging 17 fouls per game , so the Gamecocks must capitalize at the free throw line.

9. Play hard, play smart