The series that spotlights the most influential South Carolina women’s basketball players by jersey number continues with a deep dive into the digits 11 through 20, a range that encapsulates some of the program’s most iconic talents.
Numbers that Define a Dynasty
La'Keisha Sutton was a cornerstone of Dawn Staley’s inaugural coaching era, steering the Gamecocks to their first NCAA Tournament appearance in 2012 and leaving a mark that still resonates in the locker room.
Brantley Southers, now fourth on the school’s all‑time scoring list with 1,1984 points, earned three Metro Conference First Team honors and a spot on the conference’s All‑Tournament squad each year she competed.
Martha Parker’s No. 13 hangs in the rafters of Colonial Life Arena, a testament to her three‑time All‑American status and two Metro Conference Player of the Year awards.
Shannon Johnson sits second in Gamecocks history with a 20.5 points‑per‑game career average, and her retired No. 14 continues to flutter above the arena, symbolizing her lasting impact.
Cristina Ciocan, a guard who prowled the backcourt in the early 2000s, garnered All‑SEC Third Team recognition during her junior season, showcasing the program’s growing talent pool.
Karen Middleton holds the program record for three‑point shooting, having drained 317 treys with a career percentage of 44.5%, a benchmark that still defines accuracy for future scorers.
Together, these athletes illustrate how jersey numbers can encapsulate entire eras, each digit a banner for excellence, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of greatness.