The fierce rivalry between Dawn Staley’s South Carolina Gamecocks and Kim Mulkey’s LSU Tigers is poised for a new era in the upcoming 2024-25 season. Both powerhouses will feature significantly altered lineups following key offseason departures, setting the stage for fresh matchups and a renewed battle for SEC supremacy.
The undefeated national champion Gamecocks face the challenge of replacing foundational pieces. The most significant loss is dominant center Kamilla Cardoso, the No. 3 pick in the WNBA Draft and the Final Four’s Most Outstanding Player. Also gone is veteran sharpshooter Te-Hina Paopao, whose eligibility has expired. Despite these losses, South Carolina returns a wealth of talent. Expectations are high for rising stars like SEC Tournament MVP Ashlyn Watkins, dynamic guard MiLaysia Fulwiley, and floor general Raven Johnson to step into even more prominent roles.
LSU is also navigating a major transition after the departures of star forward Angel Reese, the No. 7 pick in the WNBA Draft, and guard Hailey Van Lith, who entered the transfer portal. However, Coach Kim Mulkey retains a formidable backcourt duo in Flau’jae Johnson and Mikaylah Williams, the team’s leading scorers last season. Their offensive firepower will be bolstered by the nation’s top-ranked recruiting class, featuring Naismith High School All-Americans Sarah Strong and Joyce Edwards, who are expected to make an immediate impact.
With both programs reloading rather than rebuilding, their head-to-head clashes will be a proving ground for their new-look rosters. Key questions will define the rivalry’s next chapter: How will LSU’s revamped frontcourt contend with the athleticism of South Carolina’s Watkins? Can the Gamecocks’ perimeter defense contain the explosive scoring of Johnson and Williams? The evolution of these talented rosters ensures that the South Carolina-LSU matchup will remain one of the most anticipated and consequential games in college basketball.
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