Sakima Walker Bids South Carolina Farewell With Heartfelt Message to Dawn Staley, Fans

The South Carolina women’s basketball program said goodbye to one of its most beloved teammates this week, as center Sakima Walker officially announced her departure from the Gamecocks. In a heartfelt Instagram post, Walker shared her gratitude for head coach Dawn Staley, her teammates, and the loyal Gamecock fans who welcomed her like family from the start.

Sakima Walker Says Goodbye

The post, filled with emotion and pride, reflects Walker’s deep appreciation for her time in Columbia. Despite battling injuries throughout her two-year stint with the program, the 6-foot-5 post player became a cherished presence on and off the court, often referred to by teammates as “Mama ‘Kima” for her leadership, warmth, and steady influence on younger players.

South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley responded to Walker’s post with a loving and supportive message, writing:

“Love you Kim! It’s only up for you!!!”

This simple yet powerful comment speaks volumes about the mutual respect and connection between coach and player, an aspect that has become a cornerstone of Staley’s culture at USC.

What’s Next for Walker?

Walker has entered the transfer portal with a “do not contact” tag, indicating that she likely already has her next destination in mind. One rumored landing spot is Grand Canyon University, now led by Winston Gandy, a former USC assistant coach who played a key role in recruiting and mentoring Walker during his time in Columbia.

Though she never started a game for the Gamecocks, Walker’s impact transcended the stat sheet. In her first year with South Carolina, she appeared in 31 games, averaging 2.0 points and 1.3 rebounds while providing valuable minutes off the bench during the team’s undefeated 2023-24 campaign, which culminated in a National Championship.

Her final season, unfortunately, was hampered by lower leg injuries, limiting her to just 15 appearances and 5.6 minutes per game. Despite the setbacks, Walker remained a vocal leader and positive presence in the locker room, often encouraging her teammates from the sidelines and embracing her role as a mentor.

Thanks to the NCAA’s blanket waiver for former JUCO players, Walker has one more year of eligibility remaining and intends to use it to finish her college career strong. Her exit leaves South Carolina with 12 players on its 2025-26 roster and three open scholarships, giving Coach Staley room to continue reshaping the team through the transfer portal.

Walker’s departure is certainly bittersweet for the program. While fans and teammates will miss her presence in Columbia, there’s no doubt she will bring the same heart, resilience, and leadership to her next chapter.

No matter where she plays next, Sakima Walker will always be a Gamecock, forever remembered for her character, her championship spirit, and her unwavering love for the garnet and black.