USC guard Maddy McDaniel is stepping away from Gamecock women’s basketball to focus on her mental health

The USC women’s basketball program announced on Thursday via social media that rising junior guard Maddy McDaniel is stepping away from the team to focus on her mental and emotional well-being.

McDaniel was the heir apparent to Raven Johnson as the starting point guard for the Gamecocks in the 2026-27 season. The Upper Marlboro, MD native averaged four points per game last season for the Gamecocks while appearing in thirty-three games.

According to The State newspaper, there is currently no timetable for McDaniel’s return.