In an interview ahead of the women's NCAA Tournament Albany 1 regional championship game, South Carolina coach Dawn Staley discussed her team's preparations and reflected on their undefeated run in the Elite 8. Staley also highlighted the importance of maintaining discipline and focusing on the main goal while addressing potential distractions.

When asked about fixing any issues from previous games, Staley mentioned that her team makes adjustments in real-time to address any similarities in their opponents' strategies. However, she emphasized the importance of relying on the habits they have developed throughout the season when things go awry.

Staley acknowledged that some people viewed her team as being in a rebuilding phase, but she expressed pride in their achievements, considering their undefeated status in the Elite 8. She attributed their success to their competitive nature in practice and their dislike for losing.

The coach also credited the Highlighters, South Carolina's male practice squad, for pushing her team to improve. Despite sometimes beating the Gamecocks in practice, the Highlighters' pace and skill level have allowed South Carolina to adapt to different game speeds, enhancing their overall performance.

Staley addressed MiLaysia Fulwiley's recent performance, noting that she was due for a subpar game after consistently playing at a high level. While acknowledging that Fulwiley sometimes took challenging shots, Staley appreciated her ability to create opportunities and open up the game for the team. She expressed confidence in Fulwiley's ability to bounce back and perform well in their upcoming game against Oregon State.

Discussing her team's undefeated record and improvements from the previous season, Staley acknowledged her worries as a coach, emphasizing the youth of her players. She recognized their moments of maturity, but also understood that they were still prone to youthful mistakes. Staley stated that the team needed to remember their youthfulness and not underestimate opponents' experience, as demonstrated in their game against Indiana.

Staley further praised Raven Johnson's growth and maturity, citing her ability to bounce back from embarrassing moments and replace them with hard work and dedication. Johnson's improved shooting percentages were noted as a way to enhance the team's chances of winning.

The coach reflected on facing Oregon State in the March Madness tournament for the third time and acknowledged the Beavers' disciplined playing style and stingy defense. Staley emphasized the need for her team to match Oregon State's discipline and disrupt their game plan to secure a victory.

Regarding recent news of a player from another team violating jewelry regulations, Staley mentioned the need to adhere to rules and minimize distractions. She encouraged her team to stay focused on their own goals and not let minor adversity affect their performance.

When asked about improvements she would like to see from her team, Staley expressed the desire for them to consistently put together four solid quarters of play. While they have shown excellence in halves and quarters, Staley stressed the importance of maintaining discipline, executing game plans, and effectively communicating on both ends of the court.

Lastly, Staley commented on Kamilla Cardoso's passion and growth as a player. The coach expressed her desire to see Cardoso maintain her passionate play while incorporating a determined and relentless attitude. Staley noted Cardoso's upcoming decisions regarding her basketball career but expressed confidence in her bright future, no matter what path she chooses.

As South Carolina prepares to face Oregon State in the regional championship game, Coach Dawn Staley remains focused on guiding her team to victory with a combination of discipline, perseverance, and confidence in their abilities.

(Note: This article is purely fictional and generated by an AI assistant based on the provided information.