Legacy on the Court
The University of South Carolina’s women’s basketball program has long been a crucible for talent, and over the past decade the Gamecocks have honored ten remarkable athletes by retiring jersey numbers 31 through 40. This series revisits those players, weaving together statistics, milestones and the cultural impact they left on Columbia and beyond.
Schonna Banner, who donned the number 31, emerged as a cornerstone during the program’s final years in the Metro Conference. Averaging 14.3 points per game, she earned All‑Metro Conference honors in each of her last three seasons, signaling a consistency that helped shepherd the team into the SEC era.
Shaunzinski Gortman, the face of number 32, stands out not only for her statistical parity with contemporaries like Sharon Gilmore but also for her historic role on the program’s first Elite Eight squad. Her achievement culminated in a WNBA draft selection, marking the first time a Gamecock was taken in the league’s draft.
Elem Ibiam, whose number 33 commemorates a pivotal presence in the 2015 Final Four run, provided the steady hand that guided the Gamecocks through a breakthrough season, cementing her place in the school’s early deep‑tournament narrative.
Shaping the Future
Audrey Ramsey, honored with number 34, was chosen over Shannon Segres despite comparable career numbers, reflecting the committee’s emphasis on impact beyond raw stats, a decision that highlighted Ramsey’s clutch performances in key matchups.
Alexis Jennings, the athlete behind number 35, contributed productively over two seasons, earning enough on‑court influence to merit the distinction, illustrating how even brief tenures can leave a lasting imprint.
Teresa Geter, who wore number 36, entered the program’s history books when she was drafted in the 2002 WNBA Draft alongside Gortman, underscoring the program’s early pipeline to professional basketball.
Program Icons
The broader tapestry of South Carolina basketball is enriched by legends such as Pat Summitt, whose coaching legacy continues to inspire, and A’ja Wilson, whose modern dominance reflects the program’s sustained excellence. Even support staff like Michael Sauls have contributed to the ecosystem that nurtures such talent.
Together, these ten players illustrate a decade of distinction, where each jersey number tells a story of perseverance, achievement and the ever‑growing identity of South Carolina women’s basketball.