What observers say
“I think we’re starting to connect,” South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley remarked after her team’s impressive performance against the USC Trojans. The Gamecocks showcased their strength and teamwork at the Colonial Life Arena, dominating the game and securing a spot in the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament.
In a game that saw South Carolina open with a staggering 13-0 run, the final score of 101-61 highlighted the team’s prowess. Joyce Edwards led the charge with 23 points and 10 rebounds, while Madina Okot added a double-double with 15 points and 15 rebounds. This victory not only marked a significant win for South Carolina but also pushed them to their 12th consecutive Sweet 16 appearance.
USC, under head coach Lindsay Gottlieb, faced a challenging game, struggling to maintain possession as South Carolina forced them into a season-high 27 turnovers. “You know, you can lose and you can not necessarily be as good as a team, but I thought we were conceding some things,” Gottlieb reflected on the game, acknowledging the difficulties her team encountered.
Despite the defeat, USC’s Londynn Jones led her team with 20 points, and Jazzy Davidson contributed 16 points, though she was held to five baskets on 15 attempts. The Trojans managed to hit 12 three-pointers at a 48.0% shooting percentage from beyond the arc, but it was not enough to overcome the Gamecocks’ relentless defense.
This loss marks a significant moment for USC, as they now hold a 36-18 all-time record in NCAA Tournament games. However, this defeat also represents the largest margin of defeat in NCAA Tournament history for the Trojans, surpassing their previous 40-point loss to Duke in 2006.
As the season concludes for USC with a record of 18-14, Coach Gottlieb remains focused on the future. “I’m worried about winning a national championship,” said Raven Johnson, emphasizing the team’s aspirations despite the setback.
Looking ahead, South Carolina will face Oklahoma in the Sweet 16, aiming to continue their strong performance and advance further in the tournament. With their current momentum and the support of their fans, the Gamecocks are poised for an exciting journey ahead.
