They say if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it! Looking up to exactly that mantra, the South Carolina Gamecocks are back, and they’re ready to do it again. After already leaving a huge mark with national titles in 2017, 2022, and 2024 NCAA, Coach Dawn Staley has her eyes locked on another one. Confidently so, as she reveals the secret sauce for why they’re poised to make yet another championship run this season.

It’s their roster! Staley’s squad has returned almost entirely intact, and that continuity is giving them a major edge heading into the 2024-2025 season. 

She couldn’t be happier about it. “Can’t be more pleased with the way they are coming here and they work,” she said, pointing out that her team can get everything done in practice in a lot less time than before. “That’s the cool thing about bringing back almost your entire team,” the basketball coach added. 

With a core group that already knows how to win, Staley and the Gamecocks don’t need to spend endless hours on the basics. “They come in ready to go. This isn’t just today; it’s their norm, and it’s a good thing,” the 54-year-old said. 

The confidence in Staley’s statement comes from a simple truth: this team has already proven they can dominate at the highest level. Last season, the Gamecocks put up a remarkable 38-0 record. They clinched yet another national championship win, their third under Staley. 

They also set an SEC record for 43 straight conference victories and led the nation in multiple statistical categories, including rebounds and defense. Now, with most of the players returning, the Gamecocks might even surpass their own records. Let’s have a look at the roster. 

Dawn Staley’s Gamecocks’ powerhouse lineup 

First up is Raven Johnson, the Gamecocks’ floor general. Last season, she averaged 8.1 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game. Johnson’s leadership and ability to distribute the ball have been crucial. After starting 35 of 37 games last season, she might step up more this season. 

Then we have the seasoned senior Bree Hall. Her skills in stretching the floor, knocking down clutch shots, and obviously guiding the juniors will likely take center stage. For the center role after Kamilla Cardoso, Sania Feagin could be the potential one. Although she played limited minutes last season, she made sure to make her mark. 

Then there’s Te-Hina Paopao, the shooting guard who was supposed to shift to the pro but didn’t. And aren’t the Gamecocks glad she did? Paopao is one of the most reliable shooters in the country, hitting 46.8% of her shots from inside the arc. 

From now on, Chloe Kitts, who started in 31 of 37 games, might be positioned. Playing both inside and outside she averaged 9.1 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game last year. 

But it’s not just the starting five. Players like MiLaysia Fulwiley, Ashlyn Watkins, Tessa Johnson, Maryan Dauda, and Sakima Walker are all ready to step up when called upon. Also, more than talent and the stats, chemistry makes this team special.

These players know each other’s strengths and weaknesses. It’s something that gives the Gamecocks a big advantage. The team doesn’t need to spend hours rehashing the basics. Instead, they can focus on the finer details. It all adds up to the fact that they are in a prime position to make another run at history. Let’s see how they make it happen!