Gamecocks Start Season Against GCU Monday as No. 2 Ranked Team
The South Carolina Gamecocks, ranked No. 2 in the nation, are set to kick off their 2025-26 women’s basketball season on Monday, November 3. The team will face Grand Canyon University (GCU) at the Colonial Life Arena, with tipoff scheduled for 7 p.m. A pre-game ceremony to honor the Gamecocks’ achievements from the 2024-25 season will commence at 6:40 p.m.
Season Opening Details
Fans can enter the arena starting at 6 p.m., with early access for those with a Fast Break Pass at 5:30 p.m. The Gamecocks are looking to build on their successful campaign, which included a recent exhibition win against No. 11 North Carolina, where they triumphed 91-82.
Team Highlights and Key Players
- South Carolina Gamecocks:
- Head Coach: Dawn Staley
- Top Returning Scorer: Joyce Edwards (12.7 points per game)
- Top Returning Rebounder: Joyce Edwards (5.0 rebounds per game)
- Grand Canyon Lopes:
- Head Coach: Winston Gandy
- Top Returning Scorer: Ale’jah Douglas (3.0 points per game)
- Top Returning Rebounder: Ale’jah Douglas (1.3 rebounds per game)
Joyce Edwards, who led the Gamecocks last season, is showcasing impressive form, having averaged 19.5 points and 8.5 rebounds in exhibition play. Point guard Raven Johnson has also made significant contributions, averaging 4.0 assists and 3.5 steals.
Exhibition Performance and Notable Players
The Gamecocks demonstrated their strength in preseason exhibitions, defeating North Carolina and another unnamed opponent. Key performances included:
- Joyce Edwards: 19.5 points per game
- Madina Okot: double-double with 14.0 points and 10.5 rebounds
- Ta’Niya Latson: 16.5 points per game, including a standout performance against North Carolina
- Maryam Dauda: 10 points on 4-of-6 shooting in limited minutes
- Maddy McDaniel: 9 points, 4 assists, and only 1 turnover
Historical Context and Season Outlook
Under Dawn Staley’s leadership, South Carolina boasts an impressive 15-2 record in season openers. This upcoming game marks a return to home-court season opening after playing neutral site games for the past two years. The Gamecocks have performed notably well, with an 8-1 record when beginning their season at home during Staley’s tenure.
The 2025-26 season includes challenges with 11 games scheduled against teams ranked in the preseason national polls, further emphasizing the caliber of competition ahead. As the Gamecocks prepare to defend their legacy, fans eagerly anticipate the opening game against GCU.
