South Carolina women’s basketball seeks third title

South Carolina's women's basketball team is focusing on teamwork and depth as they head into the NCAA Tournament. They aim for their third national title in four years. Under coach Dawn Staley, the Gamecocks have built a strong program. In a recent game against Vanderbilt, backup player MiLaysia Fulwiley made a significant impact. She scored 15 points and helped lead her team to a convincing 84-63 victory. Staley praised Fulwiley as a "generational talent." The Gamecocks' bench was dominant, outscoring Vanderbilt's reserves 33-4. South Carolina has a notable talent pool. Many of their bench players could start for other teams but choose to support the team's success. Fulwiley emphasized that everyone shares the same goal: winning. This team-first mentality has been key to their success. The team averages over 41 points from their bench each game. This depth allows the Gamecocks to score 80.5 points per game, often with different players leading the scoring. Coach Staley has built a culture where every player contributes, focusing on collective success rather than individual stats. Communication is crucial for Staley. She addresses playing time and performance openly with her players. By keeping lines open, Staley prevents misunderstandings and helps players feel valued. This approach has led to a cohesive team atmosphere, where everyone is motivated to perform their best. As the Gamecocks prepare to host Tennessee Tech in their tournament opener, they remain confident in their talents and strategy.