South Carolina women’s basketball head coach Dawn Staley met with reporters Wednesday as the No. 2 Gamecocks prepared to host No. 4 Texas in a nationally anticipated SEC showdown at Colonial Life Arena. The rematch tips off Thursday at 7 p.m., with conference standings and postseason implications looming large.
Here’s a breakdown of what Staley addressed ahead of the matchup, based on her comments to the media Wednesday.
Emphasizing Stakes Without Overloading Players
Staley confirmed she briefly discussed the broader implications of the game with her team following their last outing, including how SEC tiebreakers and NCAA seeding could be affected.
“I mentioned it after our last game… the ramifications of wins and losses and tiebreakers, and all of that,” Staley said. “But I don’t think they’re tuned into that right now. They’re really locked into the game.”
Navigating the SEC Grind
Asked about scheduling challenges, Staley emphasized the unforgiving nature of SEC play and said her program doesn’t expect advantages.
“The SEC is unforgiving… If you focus on anything beyond the immediate game, it’ll catch you,” she said. “Don’t give us anything. We expect nothing because the road is hard.”
Lessons From the First Texas Meeting
South Carolina and Texas last met in Las Vegas earlier this season, but Staley said that result won’t define Thursday night.
“Vegas really doesn’t have anything to do with it,” she said. “This game is going to have its own identity… it’s going to come down to what we do tomorrow night.”
On Complaints About Scheduling
Staley was asked about recent comments regarding conference scheduling and noted how emotions can run high after losses.
“It’s a tough business,” she said. “Sometimes you just let it all out… I’m sure he’s not talking about it today. He’s talking about what needs to be done to beat South Carolina at South Carolina.”
What LSU Did Right Against Texas
Breaking down Texas’ recent loss to LSU, Staley pointed to rebounding and execution near the basket.
“In order to beat Texas is to outrebound them,” she said. “They made layups… and then it came down to big shots.”
Defensive Challenges Texas Presents
Staley highlighted Texas’ ability to disrupt passing lanes and force teams into tough decisions.
“They make it hard… anywhere on the floor,” she said. “You’ve got to give them one direction. When you give them options, you’re running all over the place.”
Spotlight on a National Stage
Despite the magnitude of the matchup, Staley expects a physical, competitive battle rather than a polished showcase.
“It’s going to be a knockout, drag-out like they normally are,” she said. “You’re going to see two tough teams just battle it out.”
Injury Update: Allie Tournebize
Staley confirmed that Allie Tournebize is expected to be available.
“She looked good,” Staley said. “She’ll definitely play tomorrow.”
Why Texas Remains Consistent
Staley credited Vic Schaefer’s system and consistency for Texas’ sustained success.
“They’re just consistent in what they do,” she said. “That’s what makes them good.”
Defending Madison Booker and the Paint
Stopping Madison Booker remains a priority, but Staley stressed that Texas’ strength goes beyond one player.
“We need Booker to shoot very inefficiently,” Staley said. “But it’s probably going to come down to… the loose balls, the toughness, the poise.”
