The undefeated Gamecocks won the National Championship over the Iowa Hawkeyes, 87-75.
This was an electrifying game between two powerhouse teams. It was a strong start from Iowa, credited to Caitlin Clark, who had 18 points in the first quarter and set a new standard for scoring in an NCAA Championship game that helped give the Hawkeyes a 27-20 score advantage to end the opening quarter.
In response, there was a combination of clutch threes from the Gamecocks’ Tessa Johnson and dominance in the paint from Kamilla Cordoso that fueled South Carolina’s comeback. The game had already seen five ties and three lead changes throughout, but the Gamecocks were up 49-46, which set the stage for a must-see second half.
The third quarter witnessed a continued scoring surge from South Carolina, going on a 9-0 run that was sparked by Chloe Kitts. Iowa went 5-of-17 shooting in the third quarter but managed to claw their way back to contention in the fourth quarter.
Sydney’s Affolter’s and-one play cut Iowa’s deficit to 80-75 with just over four minutes remaining, but from that point on, the Hawkeyes did not score, and the Gamecocks sensed that they were about to be crowned as National Champions as they dribbled their final possession out.
South Carolina truly is a team that has shown that they have a lot of players who are capable of stepping up and making a huge impact on the game. Johnson, who is only a freshman, especially played a part in their victory on the grand stage and led all scorers with 19 points.
Te-Hina Paopao had 14, and Kitts recorded a double-double with 11 points that went along with 10 rebounds. Defensively, Raven Johnson, who was tasked with guarding Caitlin Clark, successfully held her down in crucial moments of the game.
As for Kamilla Cordoso, in her last game before heading to the next level and playing in the WNBA, she finished with 15 points and 17 rebounds and was named the Most Outstanding Player.
The Gamecocks have achieved an undefeated season, which was a result of their relentless determination and collective efforts, and won it all under the guidance of head coach Dawn Staley, whose resume continues to rack up.
This year’s victory secures her place among the elite few as the fifth coach to win three or more national championships. She is in company with Geno Auriemma, Pat Summitt, Kim Mulkey and Tara VanDerveer.
“I’m super proud of where I work. I’m super proud of our fans — it’s awesome. It’s awesome, it’s unbelievable,” Staley said.
Staley also acknowledged Caitlin Clark after her remarkable 30-point showing.
“I want to personally thank Caitlin Clark for lifting up our sport. She carried a heavy load for our sport, and it just is not going to stop here on a collegiate tour, but when she is the No. 1 pick in the WNBA draft, she is going to lift that league up as well, so Caitlin Clark, if you’re out there, you are one of the GOATs of our game, and we appreciate you.”
The excitement of the women’s NCAA lived up to the hype and was yet again another incredible year of college basketball. Now, the spotlight shifts to the highly anticipated WNBA Draft, which is scheduled to take place on April 15 and will be live on ESPN.