The South Carolina Gamecocks just made another massive statement. With a convincing 74-57 win over Texas, they’ve officially punched their ticket to another NCAA women’s championship game. That’s right — back-to-back title game appearances, and this squad is coming for it all.
Let’s set the scene: It’s Friday night in Tampa. The air’s thick with pressure, fans are on their feet, and the stakes? Sky-high. But after a bit of a sleepy start, South Carolina woke up, turned up the heat, and never looked back. They completely dominated the third quarter, outscoring Texas 20-9, including an 11-0 run that absolutely broke the game open. From there, it was a wrap.
Now, the Gamecocks are headed to their third championship game in just four years. And Sunday? They’re facing off against none other than UConn — yeah, that UConn — in what’s shaping up to be a clash-of-the-titans rematch.
The Staley Standard
Coach Dawn Staley has built an absolute powerhouse. Her squad is deep, disciplined, and dangerous. And get this — she’s 8-0 against Texas head coach Vic Schaefer in postseason games. That’s not just coaching. That’s domination.
Staley’s strategy this time? Get the young guns firing. And they delivered. After calling out her freshman phenom Joyce Edwards last week in Birmingham for needing to step up, the coaching staff simplified her role — and it paid off big time. Edwards came off the bench and stuffed the stat sheet: 13 points, 11 boards, and 6 assists. She became the first player in the last 25 years to record a 10-10-5 stat line off the bench in a Final Four.
Let that sink in. As a freshman. On this stage.
“I thought she took her time. She didn’t seem pressed,” Staley said postgame. “Her game was lean today — and we love to see that.”
Edwards was cool, confident, and crucial.
“It’s comforting just knowing that I was going to bounce back and influence a win,” Edwards said after the game. “I’m happy it was today.”
The Vet Vibes
While the rookies were showing out, the veterans held it down too. Te-Hina Paopao, the team’s sharp-shooting senior guard, played arguably her best game in a South Carolina jersey. She dropped 14 points and shot a sizzling 3-of-4 from deep. Every time Texas tried to make a move, Paopao was there to kill the momentum with a dagger three or a clutch decision.
That kind of balance — rookies rising, vets stabilizing — is what makes this South Carolina team so scary. They’re not just talented. They’re cohesive. Everyone knows their role, and they execute like clockwork.
Texas Tried to Hang On — But South Carolina Pulled Away
Look, Texas is a solid team. They came into this game with a tough defense and some serious postseason chops. But when Madison Booker, their SEC Player of the Year and star forward, got into early foul trouble, everything started to slip.
By halftime, Texas was already losing steam. And then the third quarter happened.
The Gamecocks went full throttle, dismantling the Longhorn defense with fast breaks, second-chance points, and smooth three-point shooting. Once South Carolina found their rhythm, Texas simply couldn’t keep up.
Not Celebrating Just Yet
Despite the win and all the hype, this South Carolina squad isn’t popping confetti yet. Why? Because they know the job’s not done.
“We understand that this is not where we want to be,” said freshman guard MiLaysia Fulwiley. “We want to be cutting down those nets on Sunday. We can’t get too happy about this win because we’re not there yet.”
That’s the kind of mindset that builds dynasties.
A Shot at History
This next game is more than just another championship opportunity. It’s a chance to make history. South Carolina has never won back-to-back national titles — and no one’s done it since UConn ripped off four straight from 2013 to 2016. That’s right, the very team they’re playing on Sunday.
You better believe this one’s going to be a war. UConn smoked UCLA 85-51 in their own semifinal game. That squad is locked in. But so is South Carolina.
You can feel the weight of it — this is more than basketball. It’s about legacy. Staley is trying to cement South Carolina as the new standard in women’s hoops. UConn’s been the blueprint for decades. But this new wave? It’s coming in strong.
Get Your Popcorn Ready
Sunday’s showdown is going to be one for the books. It’s the classic powerhouse vs. the rising empire. The storied past vs. the fired-up present. Two of the best coaches in the game. Some of the most electrifying players. All on the biggest stage in college basketball.
Tip-off is at 3 p.m. ET on ABC. And if you haven’t been following women’s hoops this season, now’s the perfect time to jump in. The energy, the skill, the stories — this tournament has delivered.
Final Thoughts
If you love sports, drama, or just seeing greatness unfold in real-time, Sunday’s game is a must-watch. South Carolina has the momentum, the mindset, and the talent. They’ve got vets who’ve been here before and young stars who are ready for the spotlight. They’re hungry, they’re humble, and they’re locked in.
The vibes? Immaculate. The stakes? Astronomical. The moment? Absolutely massive.
So, whether you’re a die-hard fan or just here for the ride, make sure you’re tuned in. Because the Gamecocks are about to try to do what only legends have done — and you don’t want to miss a second of it.