Tessa Johnson and freshman Jerzy Robinson score 17 points apiece as the Gamecocks cruise past Benedict ahead of their season-opening showdown with No. 20 Maryland in Paris.
COLUMBIA, S.C. | Top-ranked South Carolina women's basketball overwhelmed Benedict 113-34 in an exhibition game Friday night at Colonial Life Arena, showcasing its depth and defensive intensity ahead of a challenging start to the 2026-27 season.
Senior Tessa Johnson and freshman Jerzy Robinson scored 17 points apiece, while junior Joyce Edwards added 15 as the Gamecocks placed three players in double figures and dominated the rebounding battle.
Robinson delivered an impressive all-around performance in her South Carolina exhibition debut, recording a double-double with 17 points and a team-high 11 rebounds. She also contributed five assists and two steals, providing an early glimpse of her potential impact on coach Dawn Staley's roster.
South Carolina established control defensively from the opening tip, limiting Benedict to four first-quarter points and forcing nine turnovers during the first 10 minutes.
The Gamecocks initially struggled to find their offensive rhythm, shooting 36% from the field in the opening period. Johnson helped stabilize the offense, scoring six points on two 3-pointers in three attempts.

