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One of many weapons on a loaded South Carolina squad, sophomore guard Zia Cooke is playing beyond her years and only getting better.
Cooke is averaging 15.5 points per game. She posted a season-high 26 against Florida. Cooke can get on a scoring roll at any point and will have to be made a non factor early for the Bulldogs to pull of the upset.
Likely to be defended by point guard Myah Taylor, Cooke will make it a priority to dictate pace and launch from anywhere on the floor. Look for Cooke to have her way and force Mississippi State coach Nikki McCray-Penson and Taylor to make adjustments.
Given Taylor’s experience and defensive prowess, expect a battle between she and Cooke throughout. This rivalry has been more than entertaining and there is every reason to believe it will not disappoint this time around.
Hail State!