- Freshman Joyce Edwards shines with 22-point NCAA debut
- Gamecocks extend first-round dominance with third consecutive 100+ point game
- All 12 South Carolina players score in 60-point victory
- Tennessee Tech's 17-game win streak snapped in tournament opener
- Sweet 16 rematch vs. Indiana set for Sunday
Top-seeded South Carolina launched their NCAA title defense with surgical precision Friday, overwhelming Ohio Valley Conference champions Tennessee Tech 108-48. Freshman forward Joyce Edwards announced her tournament arrival with 22 points and relentless energy, outperforming even program legend Aliyah Boston's first NCAA game output.
The Gamecocks' balanced attack proved devastating as all 12 roster members scored – a testament to coach Dawn Staley's emphasis on team depth. South Carolina converted 64% of field goals while holding Tennessee Tech to 32% shooting, demonstrating why they remain championship favorites.
Edwards' immediate impact underscores a growing trend in women's basketball where elite freshmen reshape title races. The 6-foot-3 forward's performance drew comparisons to recent WNBA draftees, with Staley noting: When Joyce establishes inside presence early, it creates offensive opportunities for everyone.
Regional analysis reveals South Carolina's sustained Southeast dominance, having now won 17 of their last 18 NCAA tournament games. This contrasts with Tennessee Tech's first NCAA appearance since 2000, highlighting the growing resource gap between power conference programs and mid-major contenders.
Sunday's matchup against Indiana presents strategic intrigue. The Hoosiers nearly upset South Carolina in last year's Sweet 16, falling 79-75. With Olympic gold medalist Lisa Leslie consulting during film sessions, Staley aims to counter Indiana's perimeter shooting threats while maintaining interior dominance through Edwards.
The Gamecocks' 43-of-67 shooting performance (64.2%) sets a concerning precedent for future opponents. As Tennessee Tech coach Kim Rosamond observed: When they finish at that efficiency level, you're essentially hoping for missed shots rather than stopping designed plays.
Historical context magnifies South Carolina's current run. Since their 2022 championship, the program has developed an unprecedented 19 WNBA draft picks while maintaining NCAA success – a dual achievement that reshapes expectations for collegiate player development.