If there was any doubt about the future of the South Carolina frontcourt, Sunday’s 85–48 demolition of No. 17 Ole Miss just erased it. In front of a sold-out Colonial Life Arena and a national College GameDay audience, we didn’t just see a win—we saw a changing of the guard.
Joyce Edwards: The Freshman Phenom
Joyce Edwards continues to prove she isn’t your average freshman. Finishing with a game-high 21 points, Edwards played with a physical maturity that left the Rebels’ defense searching for answers. Whether it was post-ups, second-chance points, or running the floor, she looked every bit like the next great Gamecock legend.
Madina Okot: The Secret Weapon Unlocked
While Joyce brought the power, Madina Okot brought the “wow” factor. The 6’6″ transfer posted a massive double-double with 17 points and 10 rebounds, but it was her shooting that set Facebook on fire.
Known for her rebounding and elite rim protection (4 blocks!), Okot stepped outside and went a perfect 3-of-3 from beyond the arc. When your 6’6″ center is hitting transition threes, the rest of the country officially has a problem.
Why This Matters
For years, Dawn Staley’s teams have been built on “Post University.” From A’ja Wilson to Aliyah Boston and Kamilla Cardoso, the blueprint is clear. But seeing Edwards and Okot combine for 38 points and total paint dominance suggests that the 2026 version of the “Twin Towers” might be the most versatile yet.
With the SEC Tournament around the corner, this duo is peaking at the perfect time. If they keep playing like this, “sharing” the SEC title will be the last thing this team does—they’ll be taking the whole trophy home.
#Gamecocks #WomensBasketball #ForeverToUs #GamecockNation #WinningStreak
About the Author
