Dawn Staley Previews South Carolina’s Clash with No. 5 Texas
Columbia, SC – South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley offered her thoughts ahead of a marquee matchup between the No. 2 Gamecocks and No. 5 Texas. Set to take place on Sunday, the showdown promises to be a battle of two elite women’s basketball programs.
Speaking to reporters, Staley emphasized the importance of starting strong against a physical Texas squad known for its aggressive defense. “Texas is a team that doesn’t back down,” Staley said. “We’ll need to match their intensity from the tip-off and stay locked in for 40 minutes.”
Staley praised the depth of her roster, a strength the Gamecocks have relied on throughout the season, especially in the absence of injured forward Ashlyn Watkins. “We’ve had players step up in big moments, and that’s what makes this team special,” Staley said. “It’s not just one or two players—it’s everyone contributing in meaningful ways.”
The Gamecocks (14-1) are riding a wave of momentum, but Staley acknowledged the challenges ahead, with several ranked opponents on the horizon. “These are the games that prepare us for March,” she said. “We know what’s at stake, and we’re ready to give it everything we’ve got.”
Texas (13-2) enters the matchup with a strong defensive identity, and Staley made it clear that South Carolina’s offensive execution will need to be sharp. “They’re going to test us, no doubt about it,” she added. “But we’ve been tested before, and this team is built for moments like this.”
Sunday’s game will tip off at 3 p.m. ET at Colonial Life Arena, with national championship aspirations adding extra weight to the contest. Fans can expect a high-energy game as South Carolina looks to solidify its standing as one of the top teams in the nation.
