The second-ranked South Carolina WBB defeats Texas A&M handily. Three brief observations

On January 10, 2025, the South Carolina Gamecocks, ranked second in the nation, took care of business in a dominant performance against Texas A&M, securing a 79-53 victory that solidified their status as one of the top teams in the nation. The Gamecocks, led by coach Dawn Staley, have been nothing short of impressive this season, continuing their streak of dominance within the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and across the nation. Against Texas A&M, they demonstrated all the characteristics that have made them so successful: suffocating defense, efficient offense, and a depth of talent that few programs can match.

While the win was certainly expected, especially given South Carolina’s recent form, the game was still an important step forward as they continue their pursuit of a national championship. With this convincing victory, the Gamecocks made several statements, including their ability to overpower opponents both offensively and defensively. Here are three brief but important observations from their impressive victory over the Aggies.

1. South Carolina’s Defense Is As Elite As Ever

One of the cornerstones of Dawn Staley’s coaching philosophy has always been defense, and it was once again a key factor in the Gamecocks’ victory over Texas A&M. Throughout the game, South Carolina suffocated the Aggies’ offense, forcing them into difficult shots and consistently applying pressure. The Gamecocks’ defensive strategy was a combination of tight perimeter defense, swarming post defense, and active hands in passing lanes.

From the opening tip, South Carolina asserted its dominance defensively. They didn’t allow Texas A&M to establish any rhythm, and their defensive intensity prevented the Aggies from getting good looks at the basket. South Carolina’s defensive prowess is one of the main reasons why they are so difficult to beat. They have the size, athleticism, and depth to switch on screens, contest shots, and overwhelm opposing teams with their relentless effort.

Aliyah Boston, who is widely considered one of the best defenders in women’s college basketball, was a standout on the defensive end, blocking shots and altering several more. Boston’s presence in the paint made it extremely difficult for Texas A&M to execute their offense inside, forcing them to take contested jumpers that often didn’t fall. With Boston, Laeticia Amihere, and other long, athletic players on the roster, South Carolina can lock down almost any opponent.

The Gamecocks’ defense was also evident in the way they disrupted Texas A&M’s ball movement. South Carolina’s defenders constantly got their hands in passing lanes, leading to several turnovers and fast-break opportunities. The Gamecocks capitalized on these turnovers, turning them into easy points on the other end. For a team as offensively potent as South Carolina, being able to score off turnovers makes them an even more dangerous opponent.

South Carolina’s defense has been a consistent theme throughout the season, and it will be a major factor as they continue their march toward March Madness. If they can continue to shut down high-scoring offenses like they did against Texas A&M, they will be a tough team to beat in the postseason.

2. South Carolina’s Offensive Efficiency Is a Major Strength

While South Carolina is well-known for its suffocating defense, they also showed why they are one of the most efficient offenses in the country against Texas A&M. The Gamecocks displayed a well-rounded offensive game, utilizing both their inside presence and perimeter shooting to create a balanced attack that was simply too much for the Aggies to handle.

Aliyah Boston, as expected, was a dominant force on the offensive end, finishing the game with 24 points and 12 rebounds. Her ability to score in the post is unparalleled in women’s college basketball, and Texas A&M had no answer for her. Boston’s scoring was key to South Carolina building an insurmountable lead, and she made sure the Gamecocks controlled the game from start to finish. She continued to show why she is one of the most impactful players in the country, able to take over a game both defensively and offensively.

But what stood out the most was the balance on offense. Zia Cooke, one of South Carolina’s leading scorers, added 18 points of her own and demonstrated her ability to create her own shot. Cooke’s scoring ability, combined with her clutch shot-making, made it nearly impossible for Texas A&M to defend multiple options for South Carolina. Her outside shooting and mid-range game created spacing for Boston to operate in the post, while her ability to drive to the basket kept the Aggies on their heels.

Brea Beal, known for her defensive prowess, also contributed significantly on the offensive end with 14 points, providing the Gamecocks with yet another scoring option. Her ability to stretch the floor and contribute in different ways kept Texas A&M from being able to focus their defense on any one player. Beal’s versatility allows her to make an impact in a variety of ways, and it was clear that South Carolina has the offensive depth to succeed against a wide range of opponents.

In addition to their star players, South Carolina also received solid contributions from the supporting cast. Laeticia Amihere, a dynamic forward, was excellent in transition and grabbed several important rebounds, finishing with 8 points and 7 rebounds. The Gamecocks’ offense ran smoothly thanks to their unselfish ball movement, which helped generate open looks and easy baskets. South Carolina has shown they are not just reliant on one player to score; they are an offensive juggernaut that can attack opponents in multiple ways.

The offensive efficiency of South Carolina was one of the key reasons they were able to maintain control of the game throughout. Against top-tier teams, South Carolina’s balance on offense will make them extremely difficult to defend. They have the firepower to score both inside and on the perimeter, and their players have the skill to execute in high-pressure situations. This offensive versatility will make them a formidable opponent in the upcoming SEC and NCAA tournaments.

3. South Carolina’s Depth and Depth of Talent Were on Full Display

One of the most impressive aspects of South Carolina’s victory over Texas A&M was the team’s depth. While their starters played major minutes, it was clear that the Gamecocks’ bench provided significant contributions, adding to the overall quality of play. This is a team that doesn’t rely solely on a few players to carry them. The strength of their roster lies in the depth of talent they have across the board.

Dawn Staley has consistently built South Carolina into a program with one of the deepest rosters in women’s college basketball, and that depth was evident against Texas A&M. With so many talented players at her disposal, Staley can afford to rotate her lineup without losing intensity or efficiency on either end of the court.

Kamilla Cardoso, a 6-foot-7 center who provides a strong presence in the post, was instrumental in the Gamecocks’ win, contributing 6 points and 5 rebounds in limited minutes. Cardoso’s size and shot-blocking ability give South Carolina an added layer of depth in the frontcourt, and her presence on the floor allows Boston to conserve energy while still being dominant in the paint.

In addition, Olivia Thompson and Kierra Fletcher provided important minutes off the bench, showing that South Carolina has the talent to withstand foul trouble or injuries without missing a beat. Thompson and Fletcher’s ability to step up when called upon will be crucial in the upcoming weeks as the Gamecocks prepare for an intense stretch of SEC competition.

Having such a deep roster also allows South Carolina to maintain a high level of intensity throughout the game, as the team can rotate in fresh players without sacrificing performance. The Gamecocks’ ability to wear down their opponents through consistent defensive pressure and offensive execution is a testament to the strength of their overall team.

As South Carolina moves forward in the season, their depth will continue to be a major factor. When a team has multiple players who can contribute in significant ways, it’s difficult for opponents to focus their defense on any one player. South Carolina’s depth allows them to stay fresh and maintain a high level of play, no matter who is on the court.