Opinion: South Carolina's Bench Might Just Be the Key to a Deep Tournament Run

Joseph Griffin | Mar 26, 2024

Mar 24, 2024; Columbia, SC, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard MiLaysia Fulwiley (12) drives around / Jeff Blake-USA TODAY Sports

Every team looks for an edge in the high stakes of the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament. For Dawn Staley's South Carolina Gamecocks, that edge might be their remarkable depth, which has been crucial all season and is poised to determine how far their tournament run can go.

A telling statistic surfaced on Twitter, courtesy of Chris Dearing's research, highlighting a stark disparity in bench contributions among the remaining sweet 16 teams in the second-round games. South Carolina led the pack with a staggering 51 bench points, while other contenders like Iowa and UConn had none. This isn't just a one-off occurrence; it's a testament to the Gamecocks' deep roster and the strategic advantage it provides.

Depth is more than just having substitutes; it's about maintaining a level of play that stays on track when starters need a rest. South Carolina's bench has been exemplary in this regard, with players like MiLaysia Fulwiley and Chloe Kitts filling roles and shining in them. Fulwiley's 37 points and Kitts' 33 points over the first two games are numbers that would make any opponent envious—and they're coming from players who weren't even on the floor at the opening tip.

Mar 22, 2024; Columbia, SC, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks forward Chloe Kitts (21) drives against / Jeff Blake-USA TODAY Sports

What makes the Gamecocks' depth even more intimidating is the quality of their bench players. They possess the skills to start for many other teams, offering scoring prowess and, in some cases, superior talents in specific facets of the game. This depth allows South Carolina to keep their players fresh, to adapt to different styles of play, and to cope with the foul troubles or injuries that can derail a less prepared team's hopes.

As the tournament progresses, the importance of depth only intensifies. The pressure mounts, the games get tighter, and the margins for error shrink. Having a bench that can contribute significantly is like having an ace up the sleeve. This could be the difference-maker for South Carolina, seeing them cutting down the nets when all is said and done. Keep an eye on the Gamecocks' bench; it's not just a luxury, it's a weapon.

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