South Carolina’s women’s basketball team secured their spot in the Final Four for the fourth consecutive season following a 70-58 victory over Oregon State. With a flawless season record of 36-0, the No. 1 seed Gamecocks displayed resilience and determination throughout the game, ultimately earning their sixth Final Four appearance under the guidance of head coach Dawn Staley. Staley, who has led the program to all of its national semifinal appearances in her 16-year tenure, commended her team’s hard work and effort, expressing immense pride in their achievements.
Despite struggling with 3-point shooting in the first half, South Carolina managed to maintain a narrow lead going into halftime, courtesy of their dominance on the offensive boards. The Gamecocks capitalized on 13 offensive rebounds and converted them into 18 second-chance points, setting the tone for the remainder of the game. Freshman guard Tessa Johnson delivered a standout performance, leading the team in scoring with 15 points, while senior Kamilla Cardoso contributed 12 points and nine rebounds. However, it was Ashlyn Watkins’ remarkable defensive display, including 14 rebounds and four blocks, that significantly impacted the outcome of the game.
Oregon State faced challenges early on with key players such as Timea Gardiner and Raegan Beers encountering foul trouble in the first half. Despite the setbacks, both players managed to maintain their composure and make valuable contributions to their team’s efforts. Beers emerged as the game’s top scorer with 16 points and eight rebounds, while Gardiner recorded a double-double with 10 points and 12 rebounds. The Beavers’ resilience and determination were evident throughout the game, despite falling short against the formidable Gamecocks.
With their ticket punched to the Final Four, South Carolina now eagerly awaits the outcome of the NC State-Texas matchup to determine their next opponent. The highly anticipated showdown is set to take place in Cleveland, with the Gamecocks looking to carry their momentum and secure a spot in the national championship game. Staley and her team remain focused on their ultimate goal of claiming the title, drawing inspiration from their past successes and unwavering determination to overcome any challenges that come their way. The stage is set for an exciting showdown as South Carolina continues its quest for championship glory.
