South Carolina dominated Anderson 112–31 in Friday night’s exhibition, and several key takeaways emerged from the victory.
Bench rotation:
With the starting lineup settled, the main question was how coach Dawn Staley would manage her reserves. Maddy McDaniel was the first sub, taking over for Raven Johnson, followed by Agot Makeer for Ta’Niya Latson. Adhel Tac and Ayla McDowell came in next, while Maryam Dauda was the last off the bench, entering for Joyce Edwards. Staley’s substitutions later in the game were based on flow, so her rotation pattern shouldn’t be overanalyzed just yet. She appeared intent on getting Edwards into rhythm, which explained Dauda’s limited minutes.
Dominant frontcourt:
Anderson’s lack of size they had only one player taller than six feet meant Madina Okot and Adhel Tac weren’t heavily challenged. Still, Tac made her presence felt with eight rebounds and seven points. Okot, however, was the standout performer. She showcased agility, intelligence, and skill, scoring in multiple ways: a pull-up jumper, a fast-break layup, a spin move in the paint, and an assist to Latson—all in the first half. She carried that energy throughout, finishing with 17 points, 15 rebounds, six blocks, and three steals. Okot looked like the versatile and dynamic post player the Gamecocks lacked last season.
Freshmen impact:
Both Agot Makeer and Ayla McDowell faced tougher competition internationally over the summer, and that experience showed. McDowell contributed six points and several good passes, while Makeer exceeded expectations. Coming in second off the bench, she delivered 16 points, six rebounds, five steals, and four assists. Though Staley only needs her freshmen to provide steady minutes, Makeer looked ready to make a real impact. Her next challenge will be against a much stronger North Carolina team.
South Carolina’s depth, frontcourt dominance, and promising young talent were all on display encouraging signs as they gear up for tougher competition ahead.
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