CLEVELAND, Ohio – South Carolina continued their undefeated season, advancing to the women’s NCAA Tournament championship game with a decisive 78-59 victory over North Carolina State. Led by All-America center Kamilla Cardoso’s 22 points, the talented Gamecocks dominated the match-up to secure their spot in the Finals.
Despite a close first half, South Carolina unleashed their full potential in the third quarter, outscoring North Carolina State 29-6 to secure the victory. Head coach Dawn Staley attributed the team’s success to turning up the defensive pressure and capitalizing on 3-point shots, showcasing their relentless determination to win.
The Gamecocks, with a record of 37-0, will face Iowa in the championship game, setting the stage for an intense rematch after last year’s defeat in the Final Four. Forward Ashlyn Watkins, who grabbed 20 rebounds, expressed the team’s unwavering desire to claim the national title, emphasizing their commitment to victory.
N.C. State’s Aziaha James scored 20 points in a valiant effort, but the Wolfpack could not match South Carolina’s dominance. Facing a team that has been a unanimous No. 1 most of the season, N.C. State struggled against the Gamecocks’ formidable defense and offensive prowess.
Cardoso, despite a minor injury in the first half, returned to the game in the third quarter and contributed significantly to the team’s success. With Cardoso’s resilience and the team’s collective effort, South Carolina demonstrated their strength and determination to secure their spot in the championship game.
Looking ahead to the finals, South Carolina’s depth, talent, and confidence have positioned them as strong contenders for the championship title. Coach Staley commended the team’s growth and unity throughout the season, highlighting their journey towards potential dynasty status.
As the Gamecocks prepare to face Iowa in the championship game, the stage is set for an exciting showdown between two formidable teams vying for the coveted national title. With one more game left in the season, South Carolina is poised to etch their legacy in women’s college basketball history.