University of South Carolina forward Joyce Edwards gathers for a shot during an SEC game against Florida at Colonial Life Arena, Columbia, S.C. on Feb. 13, 2025. Edwards scored 28 points in the team's 101-63 win. (Joyce Bassett / Special to the Times Union)

University of South Carolina Gamecocks' theme for this season is "Uncommon" with the phrase "Never Give Up" having special meaning after the team's loss to UConn by 29 points. Players Tessa Johnson and MiLaysia Fulwiley warmup prior to the SEC contest against Florida at Colonial Life Arena, Columbia, S.C. on Feb. 13, 2025. (Joyce Bassett / Special to the Times Union)

Joyce Edwards is having a sensational freshman season for the South Carolina Gamecocks, leading the team in scoring while providing a huge spark off the bench.

Despite Edwards' local roots, landing the state’s top recruit and the nation’s number three prospect of the high school class of 2024 wasn’t easy for head coach Dawn Staley. The USC coach first went to see her play in middle school and Staley knew the right academic path would play a major role in Edwards’ decision.

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The renowned coach, who just signed a $25.25 million contract extension, went to the university’s honors college to establish a curriculum in the environmental sciences for Edwards, who graduated high school with a 5.08 GPA. Staley’s hard work paid off.

“Iron sharpens iron,” Edwards told

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