South Carolina’s head coach met with reporters Wednesday to discuss the team’s conference opener scheduled for 2 p.m. New Year’s Day against undefeated Alabama.
Injury Updates and Roster Status
When asked about guard Ta’Niya Latson’s condition, Staley confirmed she missed Wednesday’s practice and will be unavailable for the Alabama matchup. Regarding Sunday’s availability, Staley emphasized a cautious approach: “You take it day by day. I’m hoping; I’m praying. If not, we got to keep going.”
She provided uncertainty about Alicia Tournebize’s potential return, responding simply with “Well, I don’t know. Maybe” when questioned about Sunday’s game.
Embracing the SEC Challenge
Staley acknowledged the demanding nature of conference competition, stating the league “isn’t for the faint of heart; it is for programs that want to win national championships.” She emphasized that SEC participation provides championship opportunities, adding “we’re excited about that.”
Despite the team’s decade of conference dominance, Staley recognizes the target on South Carolina’s back. “We talked about being ‘the hunted,'” she explained, noting that regardless of external expectations, opponents “are going to bring their best, and we’re forced to embrace that challenge.”
Team Development and Non-Conference Preparation
Staley expressed satisfaction with the team’s cohesion entering conference play, noting they’re “playing better together” and “practicing like we want to play.” She highlighted individual improvement across the roster and better execution of team concepts.
Addressing the non-conference schedule’s competitiveness, Staley acknowledged it “wasn’t as competitive as it normally is” due to scheduling challenges. She explained that booking opponents requires years of advance planning with financial commitments: “You plan years prior to your actual play date. And if you break that, then you got to pay.”
However, the lighter slate provided developmental benefits, allowing rotation players to gain experience without overwhelming pressure, working on skills “with a small margin of error.”
Alabama Scouting Report
Despite Alabama’s undefeated record and different appearance from previous seasons, Staley respects their consistent qualities. “They play like an SEC team — which is gritty, which is hard-nosed,” she observed, noting their ability to “decrease your momentum throughout the 40 minutes.”
She referenced historical difficulties creating separation against Alabama, expressing hope that Colonial Life Arena provides the customary home advantage needed to secure the season’s first conference victory.
Veteran Leadership Importance
Staley emphasized the value of experienced players like Raven Johnson, Tessa Johnson, Joyce Edwards, and Madina Okot heading into conference action. She noted Johnson’s particular enthusiasm, recalling “Raven yesterday was like, ‘It’s SEC time.'” Whether motivated by her final season or genuine excitement, Staley appreciates players recognizing that the SEC “leads to championships, and it leads to competing for national championships.”
Personal Challenge
When asked about New Year’s resolutions, Staley revealed dietary modifications ahead, planning “smoothies and a sensible dinner” consisting of rice with salmon or chicken. She connected this personal commitment to team expectations: “I ask our players to make some sacrifices, and I try to make sacrifices in my own personal life because it’s hard. And I want to do a hard thing because I asked them to do a hard thing. So, no sugar.”
The approach reflects her leadership philosophy of modeling the discipline she demands from her players.
