Sakima Walker, a player for the defending national champion South Carolina women's basketball team, announced on social media Tuesday that she will return for her final season. Walker, a 6-foot-5 forward who joined the Gamecocks last year from Northwest Florida as the junior college player of the year, made her decision known through a minute-long highlight video that ended with the words, “Run It Back.”
Walker's return is significant for South Carolina, especially after the team lost its leading scorer, Kamilla Cardoso, who was drafted No. 3 overall by the Chicago Sky in the WNBA. Last season, Walker played in 31 games, starting once and averaging seven minutes per game, as reported by the Associated Press. Her experience and presence will be vital as the Gamecocks aim to build on their perfect 38-0 season and continue their dominance in college basketball.
Walker’s journey to South Carolina began after two seasons at Rutgers and a standout year at Northwest Florida.
New additions boost South Carolina women’s basketball in pursuit of another title
In addition to Walker’s return, South Carolina bolstered its roster through the transfer portal, adding Arkansas forward Maryam Dauda in May. The 6-foot-4 Dauda announced her transfer to the Gamecocks from Arkansas. With the Razorbacks, Dauda made a substantial impact, starting all 33 games last season and leading the team in field goal percentage, blocks and offensive rebounds.
Dauda’s arrival at South Carolina is particularly timely following the departure of Cardoso. As a McDonald's All-American who averaged 10.1 points and 6.3 rebounds per game last season, Dauda is expected to be a key player in the Gamecocks' frontcourt. She joins a talented group that includes Ashlyn Watkins, Sania Feagin and Chloe Kitts, all of whom bring size and versatility to the lineup. Additionally, the Gamecocks have added 6-foot-5 freshman Adhel Tac, who joined midseason last year while recovering from a knee injury.
The Gamecocks’ 2023-24 season was historic, culminating in an undefeated run and their third national championship under head coach Dawn Staley. They secured the title with an 87-75 victory over Iowa, led by Caitlin Clark, in the NCAA tournament final. Key performances from players like Cardoso, Te-Hina Paopao and Kitts were crucial to their success. The Gamecocks' bench also played a vital role in the title win, outscoring Iowa’s bench 37-0 in the final. Freshman Tessa Johnson scored 19 points off the bench, and MiLaysia Fulwiley added nine points, four assists and four rebounds.
Looking forward, South Carolina is poised to maintain its competitive edge with a strong returning roster and promising new additions. Staley emphasized the team’s unity and competitive spirit as driving forces behind their accomplishments last season. With Walker’s decision to return and the influx of talented transfers, the Gamecocks could be on a path to repeat their 2023-24 success in the upcoming season.
Follow Us
Subscribe
