In a commanding performance, South Carolina stormed past USC with a 101-61 victory in Columbia, securing their sixth consecutive trip to the Sweet Sixteen. From the tip-off, South Carolina dominated, establishing a double-digit lead within minutes and never easing off the gas.
Reflecting on the season's end, USC head coach Lindsay Gottlieb acknowledged the tough loss but remained proud of the team's achievements. "It's a hard way to end," she admitted, "but this game shows us where we need to go and what it takes to get there."
Joyce Edwards was the standout for South Carolina, showcasing why she's a top WNBA prospect. She led the charge with 23 points and 10 rebounds, shooting an impressive 8-of-12 from the field. Edwards wasn't alone in her efforts; Madina Okot added 15 points and dominated the boards with 15 rebounds, eight of which were offensive.
The Gamecocks set the tone early, jumping to a 13-0 lead before USC managed to score. By the end of the first quarter, South Carolina had an 18-point advantage, fueled by relentless offensive rebounding. Despite a brief rally by USC in the second quarter, turnovers and missed shots allowed South Carolina to extend their lead to 51-21 by halftime.
USC showed resilience in the second half, but the Gamecocks continued to pull away. A 14-1 run in the third quarter pushed their lead to 44 points, and by the fourth quarter, South Carolina's starters took a well-deserved rest.
Senior guard Londynn Jones led USC with 20 points, 18 of which came in the second half. Freshman Jazzy Davidson contributed 16 points but also struggled with turnovers, committing three of the team's 27. Senior Kara Dunn, hampered by foul trouble, finished with five points in her final college game.
Joyce Edwards was the undeniable Player of the Game. Her inside presence was a nightmare for USC, and her defensive efforts, including two steals and a block, contributed to her game-high plus/minus of +38.
The turning point came with a crushing 16-0 run by South Carolina to end the first half, putting the game out of reach for USC. Raven Johnson highlighted the team's defensive prowess, noting the steals and transition points that fueled their momentum.
Rebounding was a key stat, with South Carolina outmuscling USC 43-27 on the boards. The Gamecocks' relentless pursuit of second-chance points underscored their dominance.
As USC looks ahead to the next season, Gottlieb remains positive about the journey and growth of her team. Meanwhile, South Carolina advances to face No. 4 seed Oklahoma in Sacramento, riding high on their impressive form.