South Carolina Gamecocks: A Contender with Depth and Talent
As we gear up for the women’s NCAA tournament, the South Carolina Gamecocks (30-3) find themselves in an unusual position. With as many losses this season as they had in the past three combined, the Gamecocks are not sitting at the top of the Associated Press poll. Despite sharing the SEC regular-season title with Texas and clinching the conference tournament, they suffered a significant 29-point home loss to UConn on February 16.
Nevertheless, the Gamecocks are still favorites to make their fifth consecutive Final Four appearance and are among the top contenders for the national championship. Unlike the past two seasons, where they entered the tournament undefeated and were seen as the team to beat, this year the title race is wide open.
South Carolina’s interior game was a question mark at the start of the season, especially after losing WNBA lottery pick Kamilla Cardoso and Ashlyn Watkins to a knee injury. However, the frontcourt has emerged as a strength, with Chloe Kitts earning SEC tournament MVP honors, Sania Feagin having a career-best season, and Joyce Edwards standing out as one of the nation’s top freshmen. Together, these forwards average over 31 points and 17 rebounds per game.
The Gamecocks’ guard lineup, featuring MiLaysia Fulwiley, Te-Hina Paopao, Tessa Johnson, Bree Hall, and Raven Johnson, provides the balance needed for both offensive and defensive plays. The losses to Texas and UConn in February seem to have refocused the team, as they have dominated their last seven opponents, six of whom are NCAA tournament-bound. The SEC’s strength this season, with several teams likely to reach the Sweet 16, bodes well for South Carolina’s championship aspirations.
UCLA Bruins: Aiming for a Breakthrough
UCLA has long been one of the best women’s programs never to make the NCAA Final Four, despite winning the 1978 AIAW national championship. This year, the Bruins (30-2) are poised to change that narrative. Although they lost both regular-season games to USC, they triumphed in the Big Ten tournament championship game. Lauren Betts, with her impressive stats of 19.6 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 2.9 blocks per game, was a key player in that victory. Her presence on both ends of the court makes her a crucial factor for UCLA’s championship hopes.
The junior guards Kiki Rice, Gabriela Jaquez, and Londynn Jones bring valuable experience, having played together for three seasons. This cohesion could be the edge UCLA needs to finally break through to the Final Four.
UConn Huskies: Seeking to End the Title Drought
UConn, a powerhouse with four consecutive NCAA titles from 2013 to 2016, has not won since. This is more a testament to the rise of other programs, particularly South Carolina, than a decline in UConn’s prowess. Despite recent injury woes, the Huskies have been mostly healthy this season, and their performance reflects that. Paige Bueckers, averaging 19.0 points and 4.9 assists, along with Azzi Fudd and Sarah Strong, lead a talented and reliable team.
Bueckers, who has experienced both the highs and lows of NCAA tournaments, is driven to secure a title, making the 31-3 Huskies a formidable contender.
USC Trojans: Returning to Glory
The Trojans (28-3) claimed the Big Ten regular-season title but faltered in the tournament final against UCLA. Despite a surprising loss to Iowa, USC remains a strong contender. JuJu Watkins, with 24.9 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game, is a standout player, while Kiki Iriafen adds depth to the team. USC’s history of success in the 1980s, led by stars like Cheryl Miller, sets the stage for a potential return to the top.
Notre Dame Fighting Irish: Guard Play as a Key Factor
Despite recent struggles, the 26-5 Irish remain in the championship conversation due to their strong guard play. Hannah Hidalgo, Olivia Miles, and Sonia Citron are game-changers, capable of leading Notre Dame back to its winning ways. While their post game is a concern, the Irish’s potential to regain their form makes them a team to watch.
Texas Longhorns: Defensive Prowess and Offensive Potential
In their first SEC season, the Longhorns (31-3) tied for the regular-season title, showcasing their defensive strength. Coach Vic Schaefer’s expertise in defense is evident, but Texas needs to boost its offense to make a deep tournament run. With players like Shay Holle, Jordan Lee, and Madison Booker, the Longhorns have the potential to surprise and make a push for the Final Four.
Originally Written by: Michael Voepel
