This analysis explores the projected 2025-26 rotation for South Carolina women’s basketball based on current roster availability. While Head Coach Dawn Staley continues to evaluate the transfer portal, the current depth chart suggests a blend of seasoned leadership and elite incoming talent.
Backcourt Analysis: Continuity and Emerging Stars
The backcourt structure remains relatively stable, with defined roles for returning starters and high-upside freshmen.
| Position | Player | Class | Notable Attribute |
|Point Guard | Maddy McDaniel** | JR | Sole primary ball-handler |
| Guard | Tessa Johnson | SR | Returning second-year starter |
| Guard | Jerzy Robinson | FR | Elite scoring prospect |
| wing| Agot Makeer | SO | Versatile defender/scorer |
| Wing | Ayla McDowell | SO | Lengthy perimeter option |
| Wing | Kaeli Wynn | FR | True freshman depth |
In Staley’s system, the distinction between “guard” and “wing” is often fluid. Position labels usually depend on defensive matchups, with length being the deciding factor.
Maddy McDaniel and Tessa Johnson provide a veteran foundation, while Agot Makeer is expected to retain her starting spot following a breakout performance in the NCAA tournament. While freshman sensation Jerzy Robinson possesses the talent to start immediately, the coaching staff may utilize her as a primary spark plug off the bench to ease her transition into the college game.
Frontcourt Analysis: Balancing Size and Skill
The frontcourt presents a more complex puzzle. The coaching staff must determine which pairings maximize rim protection without sacrificing offensive spacing.
Forward: Chloe Kitts (R-SR), Alicia Tournebize (SO)
Post: Joyce Edwards (JR), Kelsi Andrews (FR), Adhel Tac (R-JR)
The Starting Duo
Currently, Chloe Kitts and Joyce Edwards are the projected starters. They proved to be a formidable duo during the 2024-25 season, though their pairing results in a “small” frontcourt that may lack elite rim protection.
> “Kitts has earned the right to start, but if she is less than 100% at the start of the season, it could be tempting to bring her off the bench.”
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Depth and Development
Alicia Tournebize: Standing at 6’7″, her impact depends on physical development. After a full offseason in the strength program, she may be better equipped to handle traditional posts.
Adhel Tac: Provides a physical presence as a rebounder and interior finisher, provided she remains healthy.
Kelsi Andrews: A high-ceiling prospect whose immediate contribution depends on her recovery from a high school senior season injury.
The Strategic Crossroads
The ultimate composition of the starting five rests on Dawn Staley’s tactical preference for the season. She faces a choice between two distinct philosophies:
1. The “Best Five” Approach: Starting a smaller, highly skilled lineup and using her size as a secondary wave.
2. The Traditional Approach: Starting a conventional post player to establish interior dominance early, while keeping an “impact player on the second unit” to maintain momentum during substitutions.
