**Nine Gamecocks Dominate WNBA Opening Day – See Which Stars Made the Cut**
The WNBA’s 2024 season tipped off with a strong South Carolina flavor, as nine former Gamecocks earned spots on opening-day rosters. This remarkable achievement not only highlights the sustained excellence of the University of South Carolina’s women’s basketball program but also cements its status as one of the premier pipelines for professional talent in the country. Under the leadership of legendary coach Dawn Staley, the Gamecocks have become synonymous with dominance in college basketball, and now, their alumni are taking the WNBA by storm.
Leading the charge is A’ja Wilson, the two-time WNBA MVP and face of the Las Vegas Aces. Wilson, who led South Carolina to its first national championship in 2017, has continued her reign as one of the most unstoppable forces in the league. Fresh off back-to-back championships with the Aces, she remains the gold standard for Gamecock greatness in the pros. Her combination of scoring, defense, and leadership makes her an early favorite for another MVP award this season.
Another standout is Aliyah Boston, the 2023 WNBA Rookie of the Year, who returns to the Indiana Fever as the centerpiece of their franchise. After a stellar debut season where she averaged a double-double, Boston is expected to take another leap alongside rookie sensation Caitlin Clark. The duo could turn the Fever into a playoff contender, and Boston’s dominance in the paint is a direct reflection of the fundamentals she honed under Coach Staley.
Tyasha Harris, the steady floor general for the Dallas Wings, has quietly become one of the league’s most reliable point guards. Known for her poise and playmaking, Harris has carved out a crucial role in Dallas’ backcourt. Her ability to control the tempo and knock down clutch shots makes her an invaluable asset—traits she first showcased during South Carolina’s 2020 Final Four run.
Meanwhile, Allisha Gray continues to shine for the Atlanta Dream as one of the league’s most versatile two-way players. A former WNBA champion and Olympic 3×3 gold medalist, Gray’s athleticism and scoring ability have made her a cornerstone of the Dream’s resurgence. Her relentless work ethic, developed during her time in Columbia, has kept her among the WNBA’s elite wings.
Over in Connecticut, Mikiah Herbert Harrigan brings her defensive prowess and stretch-forward skills to the Sun. Though injuries have slowed her at times, her shot-blocking and three-point shooting remain valuable tools for a team with championship aspirations. Her journey from a key reserve on South Carolina’s 2017 title team to a WNBA role player is a testament to her perseverance.
Laeticia Amihere, the high-flying forward for the Atlanta Dream, is another rising star to watch. After showing flashes of brilliance in her rookie year, she’s poised for a breakout season. Her athleticism and defensive versatility make her a perfect fit for today’s positionless basketball—skills she refined while playing alongside Boston at South Carolina.
The Phoenix Mercury added veteran guard Tiffany Mitchell, whose scoring ability and experience provide much-needed depth for a team in transition. Mitchell, one of the most decorated players in Gamecock history, has been a consistent contributor in the WNBA since being drafted in 2016. Her leadership will be crucial for a Mercury squad looking to remain competitive.
Rounding out the group is Victaria Saxton, a hard-nosed forward who earned a roster spot with the Chicago Sky. Known for her relentless rebounding and energy, Saxton embodies the toughness that has become a hallmark of Dawn Staley’s program. Her journey from an underrated recruit to a WNBA player is an inspiration for future Gamecocks.
The ninth Gamecock on an opening-day roster is rookie Kamilla Cardoso, the towering center drafted by the Chicago Sky. Though she’s just beginning her professional journey, her shot-blocking and rebounding prowess suggest she’ll be a force in the league for years to come. Her rapid development at South Carolina, where she became a national champion and Defensive Player of the Year, bodes well for her WNBA future.
This wave of Gamecocks in the WNBA is no accident. Dawn Staley’s program emphasizes discipline, defense, and unselfishness—qualities that translate seamlessly to the professional level. Her players arrive in the league not only with elite skills but also with a championship mentality. The fact that nine former Gamecocks are now impacting the WNBA speaks volumes about the culture Staley has built in Columbia.
As the 2024 season unfolds, fans can expect these nine standouts to continue raising the bar. Whether it’s Wilson chasing another MVP, Boston establishing herself as a franchise player, or rookies like Cardoso making their mark, the Gamecock legacy in the WNBA is stronger than ever. For South Carolina supporters, it’s a proud moment—proof that their program isn’t just producing college stars, but shaping the future of women’s basketball.
So, as you tune into WNBA action this season, keep an eye on these nine Gamecocks. They’re not just representing their teams—they’re carrying the banner of a dynasty. And if history is any indication, they’re just getting started.
