COLUMBIA, S.C. (WACH) — South Carolina women’s basketball guard Maddy McDaniel is stepping away from the program to focus on her mental health.
The rising junior announced Thursday that she is taking time away from the team to focus on her mental and emotional well-being.
McDaniel shared the decision in a statement, saying she believes stepping away is what is necessary to provide her best self at this time.
“I have decided to step away from the team to focus on my mental and emotional well-being, to get back to my best self on all level.”
“Maddy’s decision is a difficult one for a young person to make, and I’m glad she felt our program was a safe place for her to make it,” said Coach Dawn Staley.
It is unclear how long McDaniel will be away from the program.
The rising Junior point guard has played 63 games for the Gamecocks, averaging 3.7 points, 1.2 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game.