**Sakima Walker Enters the Transfer Portal: A Heartfelt Goodbye to “Mama ‘Kima”**
South Carolina women’s basketball center Sakima Walker has officially entered the NCAA transfer portal, marking the end of her two-year stint in Columbia. Standing at 6-foot-5, Walker was more than just a post player for the Gamecocks—she was a steady presence, a locker room leader, and the heart of the bench unit affectionately known as “Mama ‘Kima.” While her time in garnet and black may not have been filled with gaudy stats or SportsCenter highlights, her legacy lies in the moments between the buzzer—the relationships, the mentorship, and the resilience.
### A Journey Defined by Perseverance
Walker’s basketball journey has been far from linear. Before arriving at South Carolina, she spent time at Rutgers and Northwest Florida State College. At the JUCO level, she flourished, helping her team win a national championship and earning MVP honors in the NJCAA tournament. That success made her an attractive addition to a South Carolina team looking to reload after sending several players to the WNBA.
In May 2023, Dawn Staley and her staff brought Walker to Columbia with hopes that she’d provide depth, leadership, and a physical post presence. She did exactly that—even if it didn’t always show up on the stat sheet.
### Year One: Establishing a Role
In her first year with the Gamecocks, Walker appeared in 31 games. She averaged two points and 1.3 rebounds per contest, mostly coming off the bench in relief of Aliyah Boston and Kamilla Cardoso. Her playing time was modest, but her role was crucial. In a system that prides itself on team defense and depth, Walker gave quality minutes when called upon.
But perhaps more importantly, she began cementing her role as a culture-setter. Teammates spoke often about her supportive nature, her ability to bring calm to tense moments, and her willingness to mentor younger players—many of whom were fresh off high school All-American teams and adjusting to the grind of elite college basketball.
### Year Two: Injuries and Leadership
Walker’s second season was hampered by lower leg injuries that limited her to just 15 games. Despite the setback, her presence remained felt. She showed up to practice, supported teammates from the bench, and never let her energy wane. While others might have faded into the background during a season of limited action, Walker leaned into the role of mentor more than ever.
Her teammates—many of whom were navigating the pressures of being on the No. 1 team in the nation—looked to her for stability. On social media and in press conferences, younger players like MiLaysia Fulwiley and Chloe Kitts often referenced Walker’s guidance. She earned the nickname “Mama ‘Kima,” a testament to the care, wisdom, and maturity she brought to the locker room. It was clear that even if she wasn’t on the floor much, her fingerprints were all over the team’s success.
### More Than a Stat Line
Walker’s transfer comes at a time when the NCAA landscape is more fluid than ever. With the rise of the transfer portal and NIL opportunities, student-athletes are more empowered to seek the best fit for their final years of eligibility. For Walker, a move may offer the chance to find a program where she can take on a bigger on-court role while still contributing as a leader.
In two seasons with South Carolina, she totaled 46 games, averaging 1.7 points and 1.1 rebounds across just under eight minutes per game. But those numbers barely scratch the surface of what she brought to the team. Coaches and teammates valued her maturity, selflessness, and resilience.
Walker’s story is a reminder that college basketball isn’t just about All-American selections or March Madness heroics. It’s also about glue players—the ones who keep things together behind the scenes, who show up early to practice and stay late to help others, who put the team ahead of their own stat lines.
### A Transfer, Not a Goodbye
While entering the transfer portal typically signals the end of one chapter, it also opens the door for a new opportunity. At 6-foot-5 with championship experience and a reputation as a high-character teammate, Walker will no doubt be a valuable addition to another program.
There are still teams across the country in need of a veteran presence in the paint—someone who understands winning culture and is comfortable in a supporting or expanded role. Wherever she lands next, that team will gain a player who understands that the game is just as much about heart and grit as it is about points and rebounds.
It’s also not out of the question that Walker could transition into coaching down the line. With her leadership qualities and understanding of team dynamics, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see her on a bench in a different capacity someday.
### Gratitude from the Program
Following her announcement, messages of support have poured in from fans and former teammates. Head coach Dawn Staley, who has long championed the importance of every player’s role—starter or not—has often credited players like Walker for creating the culture that keeps South Carolina among the nation’s elite programs.
Walker leaves Columbia with her head held high, having been part of one of the most dominant eras in South Carolina women’s basketball history. She contributed to an undefeated regular season, multiple SEC titles, and a run to the Final Four. While others took the shots, she made sure they were prepared to take them.
### Final Reflections
In the end, Sakima Walker’s time at South Carolina wasn’t about personal glory—it was about team, growth, and resilience. She embraced a role that required humility, patience, and empathy. She fought through injuries, stayed ready, and made a meaningful impact on a team full of stars.
As she looks ahead to the next chapter in her journey, one thing is certain: wherever she goes, “Mama ‘Kima” will bring more than just size in the paint. She’ll bring leadership, experience, and an unwavering commitment to doing what’s best for her team.
And for that, Gamecock Nation will always be grateful.