CONGRATS: South Carolina is making moves in the transfer portal, reportedly setting up a visit with standout Utah guard Gianna Kneepkens.

CONGRATS: South Carolina is making moves in the transfer portal, reportedly setting up a visit with standout Utah guard Gianna Kneepkens.

The 5-foot-11 junior is one of the top names available this offseason and would be a major addition to an already-loaded Gamecocks program coming off an undefeated national championship season.

 

Kneepkens had a stellar 2023-24 campaign for the Utes, averaging 19.3 points, 5.0 rebounds, 3.0 assists, and 1.0 steal per game while shooting efficiently from the field. Known for her scoring versatility, she can knock down threes, create off the dribble, and finish in traffic. Her ability to stretch the floor and create offense would give Dawn Staley yet another dangerous weapon on the perimeter.

 

South Carolina doesn’t have many holes, but the potential departure of key backcourt contributors has opened the door for an experienced, high-level scorer like Kneepkens to step in and make an immediate impact. She brings three years of Pac-12 experience, including multiple All-Conference honors, and has proven she can perform at a high level against top-tier competition.

 

Kneepkens missed the end of the 2022-23 season with a foot injury but bounced back strong this year to become one of the most dynamic guards in the country. Her decision to enter the portal drew immediate attention from elite programs nationwide, and South Carolina’s interest signals their intent to reload rather than rebuild.

 

Adding Kneepkens would not only boost the Gamecocks’ backcourt but could also elevate them to an even more dominant level heading into the 2024-25 season. If the visit goes well, South Carolina may land one of the most coveted guards in the portal, continuing their reign as a powerhouse in women’s college basketball.