The South Carolina Lady Gamecocks are one win away from having a perfect season as they head into the national championship game. In the women’s basketball Final Four, they defeated No. 3 NC State 78-59 with center Kamilla Cardoso leading the way with 22 points and 11 rebounds. Despite a tie at the end of the first quarter and a one-point lead at halftime, the Gamecocks dominated in the third quarter to secure the win. This victory sets them up for a chance at their second national title, having previously won in 2017 and defeated UConn in the championship game two years ago.
South Carolina’s relentless performance in the Final Four game was a testament to their determination to maintain their undefeated season. Raven Johnson also had an impressive performance with 13 points, two rebounds, five assists, and three steals. Te-Hina Paopao contributed 10 points and six assists to help secure the win for the Gamecocks. Their focus will now shift to preparing for the national championship game against either UConn or Iowa, as they aim to add another title to their successful women’s basketball program.
The Gamecocks’ victory over NC State was a hard-fought battle that showcased their strength on both offense and defense. Despite a close first half, South Carolina managed to outscore their opponents 29-6 in the third quarter, effectively sealing their place in the national championship game. Head coach Dawn Staley’s leadership has been instrumental in guiding the team to this point, and with one more win, they can achieve a historic perfect season. The team’s past successes in winning the national title will undoubtedly serve as motivation as they prepare for their upcoming championship game.
In addition to Kamilla Cardoso’s standout performance, the Gamecocks received valuable contributions from other players such as Raven Johnson and Te-Hina Paopao. Their well-rounded effort on both ends of the floor was key to overcoming the challenges posed by NC State and securing the victory. As they await the winners of the UConn vs. Iowa match-up in the national championship game, South Carolina will continue to focus on their game plan and execution to ensure they give themselves the best chance at achieving perfection. The team’s resilience and determination have been on display throughout the season, and they will look to carry that momentum into the championship game.
The path to the national championship game has not been easy for the Gamecocks, as they have faced tough competition and close matchups throughout the season. However, their ability to rise to the occasion and deliver when it matters most has been a defining characteristic of this team. With one more win, they can cap off a remarkable season with a perfect record and another national title. The Gamecocks’ impressive performance in the Final Four game against NC State serves as a testament to their talent, determination, and ability to come together as a cohesive unit to achieve their goals. As they prepare for the final challenge in the national championship game, South Carolina will look to build on their success and leave a lasting legacy in women’s college basketball.
