Throughout their storied history, the South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball program has boasted an incredible roster of talented players. While “greatest” can be subjective, here are some of the most impactful and decorated athletes to have graced the court for the Gamecocks, often cited in discussions of the program’s elite:
The Elite of the Gamecocks:
* A’ja Wilson: Widely considered the greatest Gamecock of all time, Wilson led South Carolina to its first national championship in 2017. She is the program’s all-time leading scorer and blocked shots leader, a two-time National Player of the Year, and has gone on to become a multi-time WNBA MVP. Her impact on the program’s rise to national prominence is undeniable.
* Aliyah Boston: A dominant force, Boston was instrumental in South Carolina’s 2022 national championship. She earned numerous accolades, including Naismith College Player of the Year and USBWA National Player of the Year, and is the program leader in rebounds and second in blocks. She was also a No. 1 overall WNBA draft pick and Rookie of the Year.
* Kamilla Cardoso: A key piece in two national championship teams (2022 and 2024), Cardoso’s impact was particularly felt in her final season, where she earned NCAA Tournament MOP honors. Her defensive presence and overall contributions were crucial to the Gamecocks’ recent success.
* Tiffany Mitchell: A two-time SEC Player of the Year, Mitchell was a foundational player in the early years of Dawn Staley’s success at South Carolina, helping to lead the team to its first Final Four and multiple SEC titles.
* Shannon Johnson: A long-standing figure in Gamecock history, Johnson ranks high in multiple statistical categories, including second in program history for points and steals. Her impact spanned across different eras of the program.
* Allisha Gray: Though only playing one season, Gray made a significant mark, particularly as a crucial part of the 2017 national championship team, excelling as an undersized forward.
These players represent a blend of eras and playing styles, but all share the common thread of immense talent and significant contributions to the South Carolina women’s basketball legacy.
