Columbia, South Carolina, December 30, 2025
The South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball team is set to gain a significant advantage with the addition of 6-foot-7 forward Alicia Tournebize, joining in January 2026. Hailing from France, Tournebize’s unique skills and height aim to address player injuries and deepen the roster as the team approaches Southeastern Conference play. Her past accomplishments, including notable international performances, position her as an exciting prospect for the Gamecocks, enhancing both their offense and defense as they continue to build on their competitive edge.
Alicia Tournebize: Gamecock Basketball’s New French Sensation
South Carolina Gamecocks welcome towering talent to their roster
Columbia, South Carolina – The South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball team is set to enhance its competitive edge with the addition of 6-foot-7 forward Alicia Tournebize, who will join the program in January 2026 after the holiday break. This strategic move comes at a pivotal moment as the team navigates challenges related to player injuries and a limited roster.
Tournebize is more than just a promising recruit; she represents a sign of resilience and innovation in sports, illustrating how local programs can tap into international talent to strengthen their chances for success. The Gamecocks, under the leadership of head coach Dawn Staley, are seizing the opportunity to bring a unique skill set to their gameplay, which aligns with the ongoing trend of leveraging diverse talent in athletics. This recruitment showcases how organized efforts to bring in top athletes can contribute positively to Rock Hill and Columbia’s growing reputation in collegiate sports.
Player Profile
Alicia Tournebize was born on July 21, 2007, in Charmeil, France, and began her professional career with Tango Bourges Basket in France’s Ligue Féminine de Basketball (LFB). During her stint in the 2024–25 season, she made eight appearances, averaging 2.4 points and 1.9 rebounds in just under eight minutes per game. Her remarkable achievement of being the first Frenchwoman to perform a dunk in an official game increases her visibility as a rising star in women’s basketball.
International Achievements
Tournebize gained significant recognition on the international stage at the 2025 FIBA U18 Women’s EuroBasket tournament. There, she averaged 12.1 points, 8.9 rebounds, and recorded a double-double in the third-place game against Belgium with 19 points and 12 rebounds. Her athleticism was particularly highlighted by a stunning two-handed dunk during the tournament, showcasing her potential and exciting playing style.
Joining South Carolina
On December 22, 2025, head coach Dawn Staley confirmed that Tournebize had signed a financial aid agreement to join the University of South Carolina and play for the Gamecocks. Staley expressed enthusiasm for Tournebize’s impressive skill set, which includes excellent shooting capabilities from both inside and beyond the arc, as well as formidable shot-blocking skills. This addition is expected to not only enhance the offensive dynamics of the team but also provide much-needed depth as they gear up for Southeastern Conference play.
Impact on the Team
The Gamecocks’ recent struggles due to a limited roster underscore the importance of Tournebize’s upcoming arrival. Her height and versatility as a forward offer the potential to address defensive gaps and increase scoring options. As the team approaches SECC competition, having a player of her caliber could prove critical to bolstering team performance and maintaining competitiveness in one of the toughest conferences in women’s college basketball.
Background
Before embarking on her professional journey, Alicia Tournebize attended Lycée Alain Fournier in France. Coming from an athletic background, she is the daughter of Isabelle Fijalkowski, a former professional basketball player who played in the WNBA, enriching Tournebize’s lineage in the sport.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Player Name | Alicia Tournebize |
| Height | 6-foot-7 |
| Position | Forward |
| Previous Team | Tango Bourges Basket |
| International Achievement | 2025 FIBA U18 Women’s EuroBasket bronze medalist |
| Joining Date | After holiday break, January 2026 |
| Expected Impact | Provide depth and bolster team’s performance |
Conclusion
As the South Carolina Gamecocks prepare for the upcoming spring semester and competitive play, the integration of Alicia Tournebize into the roster holds the promise of revitalizing the team’s dynamics. By attracting international talent like Tournebize, local programs can cultivate a robust environment for growth and achievement. Supporters of both the Gamecocks and local basketball initiatives should keep an eye on this promising player as she embarks on her collegiate journey, which reflects broader trends of entrepreneurial spirit and community investment in sports.
FAQ
Who is Alicia Tournebize?
Alicia Tournebize is a 6-foot-7 forward from Charmeil, France, who has played professionally for Tango Bourges Basket in the Ligue Féminine de Basketball (LFB). She is known for her impressive skills, including a notable two-handed dunk during the 2025 FIBA U18 Women’s EuroBasket tournament.
When will Alicia Tournebize join the South Carolina Gamecocks?
Tournebize will join the Gamecocks after the holiday break and begin classes at the start of the Spring 2026 semester.
What impact is Alicia Tournebize expected to have on the team?
Tournebize’s addition is expected to provide depth and bolster the team’s performance, especially as the Gamecocks approach Southeastern Conference play. Her skills are anticipated to be a valuable asset to the team.
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