Gamecocks March Back to the National Championship with Commanding Win Over Texas
The South Carolina Gamecocks are once again headed to the NCAA Women’s Basketball National Championship after a dominant 74-57 victory over the Texas Longhorns in the Final Four. With a commanding performance on both ends of the court, the Gamecocks reaffirmed their status as one of the elite programs in college basketball.
From the outset, the game was highly competitive, with Texas briefly holding an early lead behind the efforts of standout forward Madison Booker. However, South Carolina quickly adjusted and began to impose their will, using their depth, physicality, and relentless defense to control the tempo. The Gamecocks’ ability to dominate the paint was a major difference-maker, outscoring the Longhorns 40-22 inside and using their size to shut down driving lanes and second-chance opportunities.
One of the turning points came in the third quarter when South Carolina went on a critical 11-0 run that widened their lead significantly. During that stretch, the team’s cohesion and discipline shined as they moved the ball effectively, found open shots, and tightened their defensive grip. Texas managed just nine points in that quarter, falling further behind as the Gamecocks surged forward.
Led by head coach Dawn Staley, South Carolina’s victory marks their second consecutive appearance in the title game and third in the last four years. With stars like Te-Hina Paopao, Joyce Edwards, and a strong bench unit contributing across the board, the Gamecocks now have their sights set on bringing another championship trophy back to Columbia.
As they await the winner of UConn versus UCLA, one thing is clear—the Gamecocks are locked in and ready to finish what they started.
