After the South Carolina loss to UConn, head coach Dawn Staley made one thing clear: the Gamecocks are hitting the transfer portal hard. Reinforcements are coming, and experienced playmakers who can elevate this already-talented squad back to the top.
“I’m excited for what our team will look like next year,” Staley said. “With the portal, we’re bringing in experienced pieces that can help our young core. They’ll be talented enough to get right back here.”
The Gamecocks are losing veteran leaders Te-Hina Paopao, Bree Hall, and Sania Feagin, and possibly Raven Johnson, but the future of South Carolina women's basketball is still bright. Freshman phenom Joyce Edwards, electric guard MiLaysia Fulwiley, and MVP forward Chloe Kitts will all be returning, alongside two incoming McDonald's All-Americans.
With five straight Final Four appearances, three national titles, and the WNBA pipeline alive and well, South Carolina remains one of the most desirable destinations for young student-athletes. As the transfer portal opens on April 23rd, the Gamecocks are already making moves.
“We’ve always thrived with a blend of experience and youth,” Staley said. “We don’t have a glaring need — we just need players. Experienced leaders ready to contribute immediately." And Staley is not wasting time. "Just because the season’s over doesn’t mean the work stops,” Staley smiled. “There’s some things in the works that will make our team better.”