How it unfolded
On March 23, 2026, the South Carolina Gamecocks faced off against the USC Trojans in the second round of the NCAA Tournament at the Colonial Life Arena. The atmosphere was electric as fans filled the stands, eager to witness a clash between two competitive teams. Just months earlier, South Carolina had defeated USC 69-52 in November, setting the stage for an anticipated rematch.
As the game commenced, South Carolina quickly established dominance. By the end of the first half, they had built a significant lead, showcasing their offensive prowess and defensive tenacity. The Gamecocks ended the first half with a commanding score of 15-0, a clear indication of their intent to control the game from the outset. The Trojans struggled to find their rhythm, and the Gamecocks capitalized on every opportunity.
In the second half, South Carolina continued to pour on the points, ultimately finishing the game with a staggering 101-61 victory. This 69-point margin of victory marked the largest in program history for an NCAA Tournament game, a testament to the team’s preparation and execution. The Gamecocks’ ability to score 101 points against a formidable opponent like USC highlighted their offensive capabilities and depth.
Londynn Jones emerged as a standout player, scoring 20 points, her highest in an NCAA Tournament game. Agot Makeer also made her mark, contributing a career-high 15 points. The Gamecocks’ bench was equally impressive, with USC recording 26 bench points and hitting 12 three-pointers at a remarkable 48.0% shooting percentage, their best this season. This depth and versatility proved crucial in their overwhelming performance.
Post-game, Ta’Niya Latson emphasized the importance of maintaining grit throughout the tournament, stating, “I feel like we shouldn’t have to come into halftime to get lectured.” This sentiment reflects the team’s commitment to continuous improvement and focus as they advance in the tournament. Coach Dawn Staley echoed this sentiment, noting, “We were just knocking the rust off,” suggesting that the team was still finding its rhythm despite the dominant win.
Staley also acknowledged the challenges of being a top team, saying, “No matter what, we’re going to get everybody’s best.” This statement underscores the competitive nature of the NCAA Tournament, where every team aims to dethrone the reigning champions. The Gamecocks’ performance against USC not only solidified their status as a powerhouse but also set a tone for their upcoming matches.
As the tournament progresses, South Carolina’s victory against USC serves as a reminder of their potential and determination. With a current all-time NCAA Tournament record of 36-18, the Gamecocks are poised to make a deep run this year. The combination of experienced players like Latson, Jones, and Makeer, along with the strategic leadership of Staley, positions them as formidable contenders in the quest for the championship.
In summary, the South Carolina women’s basketball team’s historic win against USC not only showcases their talent and depth but also sets the stage for what could be a memorable tournament run. As they continue to build on this momentum, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how far this talented squad can go.
