Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Top News
Top News

South Carolina Dominates UConn in Top-Ranked Showdown

UConn guard Ashlynn Shade, left, looks for room to drive against South Carolina guard Te-Hina Paopao, right, during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game in Columbia, S.C., Sunday, Feb. 1

South Carolina Gamecocks Continue Dominance with Win over UConn Huskies

In a thrilling matchup between two powerhouse women's college basketball teams, the top-ranked South Carolina Gamecocks emerged victorious with a convincing 83-65 win over the 11th-ranked UConn Huskies. The Gamecocks showed their depth and resilience by securing the victory without their star player, Kamilla Cardoso, who was away for Olympic qualifying with Brazil's national team.

The Oregon transfer, Te-Hina Paopao, had an outstanding performance for South Carolina, contributing 21 points, including five 3-pointers. Paired with her was the impressive junior point guard, Raven Johnson, who recorded a double-double with 10 points and a team-high 12 rebounds. The young sophomore forwards, Ashlyn Watkins and Chloe Kitts, also showcased their talent for the second consecutive game, collectively contributing 29 points, 13 rebounds, and four blocks. Coach Dawn Staley expressed her admiration for her team's performance, stating, 'I'm impressed.'

UConn, led by legendary coach Geno Auriemma, had hoped to take advantage of Cardoso's absence. However, the Gamecocks' unique style of play and relentless pressure proved too much for the Huskies to handle. Despite a strong start, UConn found themselves trailing by double digits after a 24-11 run by South Carolina in the first half. They never managed to close the gap to less than 12 points, as South Carolina continued their dominance.

South Carolina won 83-65 against No. 11 UConn.
South Carolina coach Dawn Staley impressed with her team's performance.
Te-Hina Paopao had 21 points with five 3-pointers for South Carolina.
Raven Johnson contributed 10 points and 12 rebounds for South Carolina.
Ashlyn Watkins and Chloe Kitts combined for 29 points, 13 rebounds, and 4 blocks.
UConn head coach Geno Auriemma acknowledged South Carolina's different playing style.
South Carolina is now 6-0 this season against ranked opponents.
Aaliyah Edwards had 20 points and 11 rebounds for UConn.
South Carolina's smothering defense limited UConn's star player Paige Bueckers.
UConn shot 26% in the opening quarter against South Carolina's tough defense.

Paopao's stellar performance was a highlight of the game, as she registered her highest point total since joining South Carolina. After a four-game stretch where she made just five 3-pointers combined, Paopao proved her ability to deliver when it mattered most. Reflecting on her success, Paopao humbly said, 'You've just got to stay locked in. They went in.'

South Carolina's formidable defense played a significant role in their victory, frustrating UConn's star player, Paige Bueckers. Despite scoring 20 points, Bueckers struggled with her shooting, making only 8 of 20 attempts. Coach Staley emphasized the Gamecocks' defensive efforts, stating, 'We just wanted to make it hard for her. She definitely felt our presence on her.'

The win against UConn marked South Carolina's 54th consecutive home victory. The Gamecocks have proven time and again that they are a force to be reckoned with, especially against ranked opponents. This victory improved their record to 23-0 this season, remaining unbeaten.

UConn, once the most dominant program in women's college basketball, now finds themselves trailing behind the Gamecocks. South Carolina has won two national titles since UConn's last championship in 2016. The Gamecocks are determined to build on last year's Final Four appearance, showcasing the same determination and drive in their young roster this season.

In a show of continued rivalry, UConn and South Carolina have scheduled future games to further test their abilities against each other. The yearly game will return to Columbia next season, compensating for South Carolina having to play twice in a row in Connecticut in 2021 and 2023. The 2022 game, originally planned at the Gamecocks' arena, was canceled by mutual agreement after the teams had already met earlier in the season during a Thanksgiving week tournament.

Notably, the game attracted attention from the country's top uncommitted women's recruit, Sarah Strong. Strong, the daughter of South Carolina native Allison Feaster, who made history by leading 16th-seeded Harvard to the first-ever upset of a No. 1 seed in Stanford during the 1998 NCAA Tournament, garnered fan support with chants of 'We want Sarah.'

Looking ahead, UConn will face Xavier on Wednesday night, while South Carolina will travel to Tennessee for their next game on Thursday night.

As the season progresses, fans can stay updated with the latest AP Top 25 rankings and news on women's college basketball by signing up for poll alerts and updates. The AP women's college basketball coverage provides comprehensive information throughout the season, ensuring fans don't miss any exciting action.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.