The Rise of South Carolina Women's Basketball: Key Stats and Legacy
If you love college basketball, you've probably heard about the South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball team. Their incredible records and stats have made headlines, and fans across the nation are curious about how they have achieved such consistent success. This article takes a deep look at the figures, history, and impact of South Carolina women’s basketball through essential stats and facts.
South Carolina Gamecocks Women's Basketball: History and Overview
South Carolina’s journey to national prominence didn’t happen overnight. The program’s modern era began to shine under head coach Dawn Staley since 2008. Since then, the Gamecocks have become a dominant force in NCAA women’s basketball.
- Founded: 1974
- Home Arena: Colonial Life Arena (capacity: 18,000)
- Conference: Southeastern Conference (SEC)
- Head Coach: Dawn Staley (since 2008)
Under Dawn Staley, the Gamecocks have raised their profile to national championship contenders every year. Their defense, depth, and recruiting continue to set new standards in women’s college basketball.
Season-By-Season Records: South Carolina Women's Basketball Win-Loss Statistics
Across the past decade, South Carolina women’s basketball has dominated SEC and national competition. Here is a quick glance at their yearly records:
- 2023-24 Regular Season: 29-0 (undefeated in regular season and SEC play)
- 2022-23: 36-1 (SEC Champions, NCAA Final Four)
- 2021-22: 35-2 (National Champions)
- 2020-21: 26-5 (NCAA Final Four)
- Overall Record under Coach Staley: Over 400 wins, multiple 30+ win seasons
They have consistently finished seasons with top-5 national rankings. With scores often holding opponents to under 60 points, their defense is always at the forefront.
South Carolina Gamecocks NCAA Tournament Performance
The NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament measures a team’s true success. South Carolina’s deep runs have become regular:
- National Championships: 2 (2017, 2022)
- Final Four Appearances: 5 (2015, 2017, 2021, 2022, 2023)
- Elite Eight Appearances: 6 in the last 10 years
- Sweet Sixteen Appearances: 10+ since 2012
The Gamecocks are known for their clutch performances in March, often overcoming powerhouse teams on their way to the Final Four and championship games.
South Carolina Women's Basketball Player Stats and Leaders
Elite individual talent has fueled the program’s rise. Here are some standout stats from recent Gamecock stars:
- Aliyah Boston: Career averages: 14.1 points, 10.8 rebounds, 2.3 blocks per game. 2022 Naismith Player of the Year.
- Zia Cooke: Noted for clutch scoring in the NCAA Tournament. Multiple All-SEC selections.
- A'ja Wilson: National Player of the Year (2018), 22.6 points and 11.8 rebounds in her senior year. WNBA star for the Las Vegas Aces.
During the 2023–24 season, the Gamecocks saw balanced team efforts. Seven or more players averaged over 6 points per game, and the bench contributed heavily to rebound and assist totals. This depth and versatility set them apart in women’s college basketball stats.
Team Stats: Defense, Offense, and Rebounding Dominance
South Carolina’s success is built on defense, rebounding, and teamwork. Team stat standouts include:
- Points Per Game (2023-24): 85.6 (Top 5 in the nation)
- Opponent Points Per Game: 56.2 (Best in SEC for several years running)
- Field Goal Percentage: 47% (2023-24 season)
- Rebounds Per Game: 45.2 (Among NCAA leaders)
- Blocks Per Game: 6.8 (Nation-leading in multiple seasons)
- Turnover Margin: +5.1 (2023-24 season)
The Gamecocks consistently finish as top-five in defensive efficiency and rebounding. They keep opponents to low shooting percentages and create second-chance opportunities by grabbing offensive rebounds. Their blocked shots reflect their size and quickness inside.
South Carolina Women's Basketball: Recruiting, WNBA Draft Picks, and Professional Success
Recruiting the top high school prospects drives South Carolina’s continued dominance. The Gamecocks regularly sign McDonald’s All-Americans and five-star recruits. This keeps their stats and rankings consistently high.
- Recent Top Recruits: Raven Johnson, Kamilla Cardoso, and MiLaysia Fulwiley (2023–24 impact freshmen)
- WNBA Draft Success: Multiple first-round picks since 2017
- A'ja Wilson: First overall pick, 2018 WNBA Draft, two-time league MVP
- Aliyah Boston: First overall pick, 2023 WNBA Draft
South Carolina maintains its national championship status by developing WNBA-level talent each year. Alumni often succeed in professional basketball, inspiring younger players and fueling future recruiting success.
Impact and Future Outlook for Gamecocks Women's Basketball
With dozens of wins per season and a growing list of professional players, the future looks bright for the South Carolina Gamecocks. Team stats from recent seasons show a well-balanced offense, relentless defense, and some of the nation’s top college basketball players in every position. Their on-court success also drives growth in fan support and national media attention.
Popular Search Queries About South Carolina Women’s Basketball Stats
Who are the statistical leaders for South Carolina women's basketball?
Recent statistical leaders include Aliyah Boston (points, rebounds, blocks), Zia Cooke (scoring), and A'ja Wilson (all-time points and rebounds leader). Kamilla Cardoso and Raven Johnson were top contributors in the 2023-24 season for rebounds and assists.
How many SEC titles has South Carolina women’s basketball won?
South Carolina women’s basketball has won eight SEC tournament titles and seven regular season SEC championships since 2015.
What is South Carolina’s record in the NCAA Tournament?
As of 2024, South Carolina women’s basketball has reached at least the Elite Eight in six of the last ten seasons, with two national championships and five Final Four appearances.
What defensive stats stand out for the Gamecocks?
South Carolina consistently leads in blocks per game, opponent field goal percentage, and defensive rebounds per game. They often hold opponents to under 60 points per contest.
Which South Carolina women's basketball players are in the WNBA?
Notable South Carolina alumni in the WNBA include A’ja Wilson, Aliyah Boston, Tyasha Harris, Destanni Henderson, Alaina Coates, and Tiffany Mitchell. Many have earned league honors or contributed to championship teams.
How does South Carolina’s home game attendance compare nationally?
South Carolina women’s basketball leads the nation in average home attendance, regularly drawing more than 15,000 fans per game at Colonial Life Arena.
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