The statement, “defense wins games,” implies that a strong defense can make up for a weak offense, making it challenging for the opponent to score and allowing the team to turn things around. The undefeated South Carolina Women’s basketball team exemplifies this idea.
They ended the season with an impeccable 38-0 record and claimed their third championship in seven years after defeating Iowa 87-75. Their defense was crucial in securing their lead at halftime during this game, played in front of 18,300 fans at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland, Ohio.
Bench players help make the difference.
Notably, the performance of the bench players was another critical factor in the team’s success. South Carolina’s bench contributed 37 points, while Iowa’s bench failed to score zero points. This underscores the significance of a well-rounded team effort in winning games.
South Carolina’s performance in the championship game against Iowa was nothing short of awe-inspiring. They outrebounded Iowa by grabbing 18 offensive rebounds, ultimately winning that battle 51-29. This rebound margin ranks fifth in the history of the national championship game, underscoring the team’s remarkable achievement and undeniable dominance on the court.
By aggressively pursuing their missed shots, South Carolina was able to score 30-second chance points, taking advantage of their offensive rebounding. This also resulted in an additional 48 points in the paint, capitalizing on their opportunities for second-chance points.
Forcing turnovers
When Iowa’s Caitlyn Clark had the ball toward the end of the second quarter, South Carolina’s defense stepped up again and forced Clark to turn the ball over. This exemplifies the team’s remarkable defensive prowess.
The undefeated South Carolina Women’s basketball season was a testament to its hard work during practices, its ability to make necessary adjustments during breaks, and its commitment during the summer.
“Despite playing through an injury, Kamila Cardoso’s determination and resilience shone through as she refused to let the team lose in the NCAA Tournament, delivering an exemplary performance reminiscent of top picks in the WNBA draft. Her teammates went above and beyond for her, granting her a send-off as a national champion and making history for their program”, Basketball Hall Of Famer Magic Johnson said.
Highly anticipated and record viewership
The Division I Women’s Basketball National Championship game was highly anticipated, with record viewership reaching a peak of 24 million viewers and averaging 18.7 million. It was a hard-fought game, with players from both teams giving it their all. Despite facing challenges and wanting to give up at times, players like SC Bree Hall persevered thanks to the support and belief of their coach and loved ones.
South Carolina’s MVP, Kamilla Cardoso, expressed her gratitude for joining the team, while Milaysia Fulwiley shared her appreciation for her coaches and cherished every moment with her team. Tessa Johnson emphasized the importance of leaving everything on the court and not taking anything for granted. It was a game that will be remembered for years to come.
Magnificent first quarter
The game started with Iowa’s Clark scoring 13 points by the first media timeout, winning the crowd’s applause for her magnificent first quarter. In the second quarter, Tessa Johnson of South Carolina took over and helped the Gamecocks tie the game at 27. The competition between the two teams continued, with both sides trading baskets.
South Carolina’s defense-to-offense transition, led by Raven Johnson, gave them the edge going into halftime, taking a 49-46 lead. The Gamecocks dominated the third quarter, jumping to a 6-0 lead, which they extended to double digits with an 8-0 run. South Carolina maintained a nine-point lead in the fourth quarter until Iowa made a comeback, cutting the deficit to six points.
Undefeated South Carolina Women’s Basketball with an edge
In the end, South Carolina’s bench points, offensive rebounds, second-chance points, and inside scoring gave them the edge they needed to secure the win despite Iowa’s Caitlin Clark, Gabbie Marshall, and Kate Martin leading the charge.
Here is the list of the undefeated champions and how South Carolina stacks up.
1985-86 Texas (34-0)
1994-95 UConn (35-0)
1997-98 Tennessee (39-0)
2001-02 UConn (39-0)
2008-09 UConn (39-0)
2009-10 UConn (39-0)
2011-12 Baylor (40-0)
2013-14 UConn (40-0)
2015-16 UConn (38-0)
2023-24 South Carolina (38-0)
Okon Ekpenyong is a multi-talented writer, journalist, and entrepreneur.
He regularly contributes to the New Americans magazine and covers college basketball for Sportzkelz media. In addition, he is the founder of Okiethedreamer Productions, a company that promotes new Americans and local businesses through community writing and referrals.
With his diverse skills and passions, Okon is dedicated to uplifting and showcasing the voices and stories of marginalized communities.
