The South Carolina Gamecocks women's basketball team is now 1-1, after two very tough road games, and are more than ready for their home opener. Next up, Penn State, a team that Carolina has seen a lot of--for a non-conference foe--4 contests since 2003, a game in each of the last 3 seasons. The Gamecocks have lost all 4 games.

This year might be different. Both teams are in rebuilding mode and have high hopes for their recruiting classes. Carolina had what was widely regarded as a Top Ten class, with at least one service ranking them as high as #4, and the Lady Lions have a consensus Top Twenty class, top estimate being the #14 class in the nation. The two teams had nearly identical records, last season.

Penn State returns some experience in the senior class: All Big Ten selection Tyra Grant, Meggan Quinn, Meredith Monroe and Nicole Arcidiacono. The latter three players, overall, did not log a lot of playing time or make significant statistical contributions to the 08-09 team.

The Gamecocks return 4 guards and 2 post players from last season. In the up-tempo, pressing style that we have seen, so far, every one of them will be needed. Newcomers also figure prominently in the mix, too. Junior guard Valerie Nainima is in the starting lineup, after sitting out her transfer year, and freshman center Kelsey Bone figures to be a fixture in the paint for the next 4 years. Junior guard Samone Kennedy seems newly energized at the point guard position and more comfortable stepping up to take whatever shot is left open to her. Junior forward Jewel May and sophomore forward Charenee Stephens add rebounding and hustle and Stephens also has a nice shooting touch around the low post.

Both teams are also considered programs "on the rise," heading in a new direction after replacing a long-tenured head coach. Every win they manage over a respectable opponent will add to their confidence and credibility within their respective conferences.

I expect a close, competitive game, hopefully not involving overtime. I think the Gamecocks have an edge in playing on their home court, but that may be the only advantage they do have. However, if they show the same solid play and intensity that has been evidenced in their first two road games, the Gamecocks should capture the home opener this season.

Tipoff against the Lady Lions is at 3 pm at the Colonial Life Arena. There are a number of promotions going on, mostly geared towards children and students, so you may want to get there early. Go to the USC sports website for more details.

(www.uscsports.com, you will be redirected from there)