COLUMBIA, S.C. — The “Palmetto State Rivalry” tipped off early this season as Clemson met No. 2 South Carolina on a chilly November evening in Columbia. Clemson entered the matchup with a young, scrappy roster but was clearly undersized against the powerhouse Gamecocks.
South Carolina dominated the first half in the paint, controlling the boards and tempo. Madina Okot grabbed seven first-half rebounds while Joyce Edwards led the way with 14 points, helping the Gamecocks take a 35–24 lead into halftime.
Edwards played with relentless energy, often leading the break, scoring in transition, and even handling the ball up the floor. Her all-around performance set the tone for the Gamecocks early.
The third quarter brought a cold spell for both teams, as South Carolina endured a 6:51 scoring drought. Still, Clemson couldn’t capitalize, and the Gamecocks maintained control heading into the final period.
In the fourth quarter, the “Splash Sisters” came alive. Freshman Agot Makeer and junior Tesa Johnson each buried a three-pointer to spark the offense and seal the win.
South Carolina cruised to a 65–37 victory, holding Clemson under 40 points. Edwards led all scorers with 18 points, while Okot posted a strong double-double with 12 points and 12 rebounds. The Gamecocks dominated the interior, scoring 36 of their 65 points in the paint.
The win marked South Carolina’s 3,000th home victory, another milestone for one of college basketball’s most consistent programs.
Clemson will return home to host American University next, while South Carolina heads west to face No. 8 USC in Los Angeles.
Before Tuesday’s matchup, Gamecocks sophomore guard Maddy McDaniel was suspended. Coach Dawn Staley declined to share details, saying the matter would remain “in-house.” When asked if McDaniel would play against the Trojans, Staley responded, “Doubt it.”
Asked if McDaniel would return this season, she added simply, “That’s on her. She’s evaluated every day.”
