South Carolina Women’s Basketball Dominates SEC Postseason Awards: Edwards, Fulwiley, Paopao Lead the Way
The University of South Carolina women’s basketball team has been a force to be reckoned with all season, and their dominance was fully recognized by the Southeastern Conference (SEC) coaches when postseason awards were announced. Five members of the Gamecocks were honored, showcasing the team’s depth and talent. At the forefront of the recognition were freshman Joyce Edwards, who earned a spot on the First-Team All-SEC, and MiLaysia Fulwiley, who was named the SEC Sixth Woman of the Year. These two honors are just the beginning of what promises to be a standout legacy for the Gamecocks. In addition to Edwards and Fulwiley, senior Te-Hina Paopao also earned recognition with a place on the All-SEC Second Team. Senior Sania Feagin and junior Raven Johnson received well-deserved spots on the prestigious All-Defensive Team. Additionally, Edwards was named to the All-Freshman Team, further highlighting her impressive first season in Columbia.
This impressive collection of individual accolades is a testament to the Gamecocks’ exceptional team dynamics, hard work, and the leadership of head coach Dawn Staley, who has built South Carolina into one of the most dominant programs in NCAA women’s basketball. The recognition of these players reflects the collective success of the team, as South Carolina secured the SEC regular-season title and cemented itself as one of the top programs in the country. Let’s take a closer look at each of these players and what their respective awards mean for the team and the program.
Joyce Edwards: First-Team All-SEC and All-Freshman Team
Joyce Edwards’ recognition as a First-Team All-SEC selection and her place on the All-Freshman Team is a major achievement in what has already been an incredible debut season for the freshman forward. Edwards has been a key player for the Gamecocks, making an immediate impact and earning respect around the conference for her skills, basketball IQ, and tenacity on the court.
Edwards’ rise to prominence was expected after a highly successful high school career, but her ability to perform at such a high level right out of the gate in one of the toughest conferences in the country is remarkable. Her combination of scoring ability, rebounding, and defensive prowess has made her an all-around threat. As a forward, Edwards has proven that she can not only be a force inside but also stretch the floor with her shooting ability. Her basketball IQ is through the roof, allowing her to read the game and make crucial plays when needed.
On the offensive side, Edwards has been efficient and poised. Her ability to attack the basket, finish in traffic, and create opportunities for her teammates has made her a valuable asset for the Gamecocks. Defensively, her ability to guard multiple positions and contribute to the team’s overall defensive schemes has been a key factor in South Carolina’s success this season. Edwards’ impact has been felt on both ends of the floor, and her recognition as one of the top players in the SEC as a freshman is well deserved.
MiLaysia Fulwiley: SEC Sixth Woman of the Year
MiLaysia Fulwiley’s recognition as the SEC Sixth Woman of the Year is a testament to her growth, impact, and importance to the Gamecocks this season. Despite coming off the bench, Fulwiley has consistently been one of the most impactful players on the court for South Carolina, providing a spark in key moments and stepping up when needed. The Sixth Woman of the Year award is given to the top player in the conference who comes off the bench, and Fulwiley has proven herself to be an elite player in this role.
Fulwiley’s ability to contribute both offensively and defensively has made her a crucial part of the Gamecocks’ rotation. Offensively, she is a dynamic playmaker, capable of scoring in a variety of ways, whether it’s knocking down three-pointers, driving to the basket, or creating opportunities for her teammates with her playmaking ability. Fulwiley’s basketball IQ allows her to make quick decisions and contribute to the team’s offensive flow, even when she is playing fewer minutes than the starting players. Her ability to come in and change the game is what has made her such a valuable asset.
Defensively, Fulwiley is a tenacious guard who brings energy and hustle every time she steps onto the court. Her ability to pressure the ball and create turnovers has allowed South Carolina to thrive in transition and set the tone for their aggressive defense. Fulwiley’s performance off the bench has been a huge factor in the Gamecocks’ success, and her Sixth Woman of the Year honor recognizes her immense value to the team.
Te-Hina Paopao: All-SEC Second Team
Senior guard Te-Hina Paopao’s place on the All-SEC Second Team is a well-earned recognition of her leadership and consistently strong play throughout the season. Paopao has been a key contributor for the Gamecocks, playing a critical role both in the backcourt and as a vocal leader for the team. Her experience and leadership have been invaluable to South Carolina, and her recognition as one of the best players in the SEC is a reflection of her hard work and dedication to the program.
Paopao has been an efficient scorer, averaging double digits, and her ability to facilitate for others has made her an essential part of the Gamecocks’ offense. As a point guard, she has done an excellent job of running the offense, setting up plays, and making sure her teammates are in the right position to succeed. Paopao’s vision on the court allows her to make precise passes and set her teammates up for easy baskets. Her ability to knock down outside shots and make plays for others has made her a constant threat on offense.
Beyond her scoring and playmaking ability, Paopao’s leadership and experience have been key for South Carolina, especially during crucial moments in games. As a senior, Paopao has mentored the younger players, helping them adjust to the college game and guiding them through difficult moments. Her leadership, both on and off the court, is invaluable, and her recognition on the All-SEC Second Team underscores her importance to the Gamecocks’ success.
Sania Feagin and Raven Johnson: All-Defensive Team
Seniors Sania Feagin and Raven Johnson’s spots on the SEC All-Defensive Team reflect their exceptional abilities on the defensive side of the ball. Both players have been standout defenders for the Gamecocks, playing a major role in the team’s overall defensive dominance this season. Their ability to shut down opposing players, disrupt passing lanes, and create turnovers has been crucial to South Carolina’s success.
Feagin, a forward, has been a defensive force in the paint, using her size, strength, and athleticism to guard post players and protect the rim. Her ability to contest shots and grab rebounds has helped South Carolina control the boards and limit opponents’ second-chance opportunities. Feagin’s defensive prowess has allowed her to make a significant impact on both ends of the floor, and her recognition on the All-Defensive Team speaks to her importance in this aspect of the game.
Johnson, a junior guard, has also been a defensive standout. Known for her ability to lock down opposing ball handlers and disrupt offensive flow, Johnson has been a key factor in the Gamecocks’ defensive schemes. Her quickness, anticipation, and ability to read passing lanes have made her a top-tier defender. Whether it’s pressuring the ball, creating turnovers, or shutting down shooters, Johnson’s defensive abilities have been crucial in South Carolina’s defensive success. Her spot on the All-Defensive Team is a testament to her impact on this side of the ball.
The Impact of South Carolina’s Postseason Awards
The recognition of five players from the South Carolina women’s basketball team is not just a reflection of individual talent but also of the program’s continued success. Under head coach Dawn Staley, South Carolina has become a perennial powerhouse in women’s basketball, consistently competing for SEC and NCAA titles. The individual accolades earned by these players highlight the program’s depth, balance, and commitment to excellence.
Each of these players has contributed in their own unique way to the Gamecocks’ success, and their individual recognition is a direct result of the team’s collective effort. Whether it’s Edwards’ breakout freshman season, Fulwiley’s impact off the bench, Paopao’s leadership, or the defensive dominance of Feagin and Johnson, these players have all played a key role in helping South Carolina become one of the most formidable teams in the country.
The recognition also speaks to the continued rise of women’s college basketball and the increasing attention and respect it is receiving. As more players like Edwards, Fulwiley, Paopao, Feagin, and Johnson make their mark on the national stage, the visibility of women’s sports continues to grow, and these players are helping to lead that charge.
Looking Ahead to the NCAA Tournament
With the SEC postseason awards behind them, the Gamecocks now turn their attention to the NCAA Tournament, where they will look to build on their regular-season success and chase a national title. With a roster that boasts such a high level of talent, South Carolina is one of the favorites to win it all. Edwards, Fulwiley, Paopao, Feagin, and Johnson will all play pivotal roles in the team’s pursuit of another championship, and their individual accolades are just a glimpse of the larger success they hope to achieve.
As the Gamecocks head into March Madness, they will be looking to prove that their dominance in the SEC was no fluke. With a combination of veteran leadership and young talent, South Carolina is primed to make a deep run in the tournament, and their impressive roster of award winners will be a major factor in their quest for glory.