Gamecocks Kick Off Season Against GCU Monday
The South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball team is set to kick off their 2025-26 season against Grand Canyon University (GCU) on Monday, November 3. This highly anticipated match will take place at the Colonial Life Arena in Columbia, South Carolina, with tip-off scheduled for 7 p.m. A pre-game ceremony celebrating the Gamecocks’ achievements from the previous season will begin at 6:40 p.m.
Gameday Information
- Doors Open: 6 p.m. (5:30 p.m. for Fast Break Pass)
- Opponent: Grand Canyon Lopes
Celebrating Past Achievements
Before the game, the Gamecocks will honor their outstanding performance from the 2024-25 season. This commemoration includes the presentation of championship banners for the SEC regular-season and tournament titles, along with recognition for their Final Four appearance. Players will receive rings symbolizing these accomplishments. Notably, GCU’s head coach Winston Gandy and assistant coach Chloe Rice, both of whom contributed to last season’s success, will also participate in the ceremony.
Recent Performance
In preparation for their season opener, the Gamecocks secured a 91-82 exhibition victory against the #11 North Carolina Tar Heels. They showcased impressive teamwork, outscoring their opponents 54-34 in the paint, and maintained a shooting percentage of 50.0% from the field.
Player Highlights
- Joyce Edwards: Averaged 19.5 points and 8.5 rebounds in exhibition play.
- Raven Johnson: Recorded team highs of 4.0 assists and 3.5 steals.
- Ta’Niya Latson: Averaged 16.5 points, including a standout performance against North Carolina.
- Madina Okot: Achieved a double-double with an average of 14.0 points and 10.5 rebounds.
- Maryam Dauda: Contributed 10 points and five rebounds in the exhibition.
- Maddy McDaniel: Scored nine points and recorded four assists in her performance.
Season Opener History
Under head coach Dawn Staley, South Carolina has an impressive 15-2 record in season openers. The Gamecocks have faced ranked opponents in five of those openers. This year marks the first time since the 2022-23 season that they will start the year at home, where they hold an 8-1 record during Staley’s tenure.
Upcoming Schedule
The Gamecocks’ 2025-26 season includes 11 games against teams currently featured in the preseason national rankings, with four of these matchups set for non-conference play. This offers South Carolina a challenging and competitive environment as they aim for another successful season.
