Three Key Takeaways from South Carolina Women’s Basketball Last Week
1. Elite Defense Remains a Strength
Despite offensive inconsistencies, South Carolina’s defense has been a key factor in their success. Turnover issues and poor shooting (e.g., 3-20 on threes against Alabama) have surfaced, but their ability to stifle opponents has kept them in games. The current defense, while not as dominant as past iterations featuring stars like Aliyah Boston, still plays at a high level, complementing an improved offense.
2. Resilience Under Pressure
South Carolina’s resilience was on display in their game against Alabama. In a challenging environment, they maintained composure and executed in critical moments. Joyce Edwards’ standout performance, particularly in the fourth quarter, highlighted the team’s ability to respond under pressure, securing a 76-58 victory despite a close contest.
3. Joyce Edwards Emerging as a Star
The race for SEC Freshman of the Year includes South Carolina’s Joyce Edwards, whose contributions have been crucial. Her performance against Alabama, leading the team in scoring, underscores her importance. While Mikayla Blakes from Vanderbilt has stronger statistical averages, Edwards’ impact on a top-ranked team boosts her case for recognition.
National Perspective
Despite South Carolina’s strong performance and significant wins, they remain ranked No. 2 in the AP poll behind UCLA. However, their superior resume, including a 13-game winning streak and a leading number of Quad 1 victories, positions them as arguably the best team in the country. Upcoming games, particularly against top-ranked LSU, will be pivotal in shaping perceptions and rankings.
Upcoming Matchup
The highly anticipated showdown against LSU, featuring a matchup of top-five teams, is set to be a defining moment of the season. With College GameDay in attendance, the outcome could significantly impact future rankings and the narrative around South Carolina’s standing in women’s college basketball.
