Phoenix, AZ—In Phoenix, the South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball turned last year’s heartbreak into motivation—and ultimately, redemption.
Fueled by the memory of their 2025 championship loss, the Gamecocks delivered a commanding performance in Friday’s national semifinal, defeating the previously unbeaten UConn Huskies women’s basketball 62-48 to punch their ticket to a third consecutive title game.
South Carolina, led by head coach Dawn Staley, will now face UCLA Bruins women’s basketball for the national championship with a chance to secure the program’s fourth title—adding to championships won in 2017, 2022, and 2024. A victory would place Staley alongside legends like Geno Auriemma, Pat Summitt, and Kim Mulkey in rare company with four national championships.
From the opening tip, defense defined the Gamecocks’ identity. They stifled UConn’s usually potent offense, holding them to just 31% shooting and snapping their 54-game winning streak. It marked one of the few times in tournament history that the Huskies were held under 50 points.
South Carolina’s defensive game plan focused on disrupting rhythm and limiting clean looks, a lesson learned from their prior loss to UConn. The strategy paid off, as stars Sarah Strong and Azzi Fudd were held to a combined 20 points on inefficient shooting.
After trailing 26-24 at halftime, the Gamecocks responded with intensity in the third quarter. A decisive 16-4 run shifted control permanently, fueled by defensive pressure and transition scoring. UConn briefly threatened late, but South Carolina locked down in the final minutes, allowing just four points over the last 6:37.
Freshman Agot Makeer provided a major spark off the bench with 14 points, continuing her strong tournament run. Ta’Niya Latson led the way with 16 points and added 11 rebounds for a double-double, while Joyce Edwards and Johnson also reached double figures.
South Carolina controlled the glass (47-32) and capitalized in transition, outscoring UConn 16-9 on the fast break.
Tensions flared in the closing moments, as Auriemma and Staley exchanged words before being separated, adding a fiery edge to an already emotional showdown.
For South Carolina, the message was clear: the pain of last year has been transformed into purpose—and they are now one win away from another championship.
