Women’s College Basketball: Texas Upsets South Carolina in a Thrilling Showdown

Women’s College Basketball: Texas Upsets South Carolina in a Thrilling Showdown

While the Philadelphia Eagles’ blowout win in Super Bowl LIX might have been the headline for many sports fans this past Sunday, it was far from the most captivating event in the world of sports. Earlier that afternoon, a top-five women’s college basketball clash stole the spotlight as No. 4 Texas pulled off a stunning upset against No. 2 South Carolina, winning 66-62. This victory marked the first time since December 2021 that South Carolina lost a game in SEC regular-season play, a streak that spanned two national championships for the Gamecocks. The game drew over one million television viewers, highlighting the growing interest in women’s college basketball.

For Texas, this win was a long-awaited triumph. It was coach Vic Schaefer’s first victory in 10 attempts against top-five-ranked Dawn Staley squads. The win also avenged the Longhorns’ 17-point defeat to South Carolina in January. In the grand scheme of things, this result bolstered Texas’ hold on a No. 1 seed for the NCAA tournament and added intrigue to the SEC title race. South Carolina, Texas, and LSU are now all tied atop the conference standings at 10-1. The upset also shook up ESPN’s latest Power Rankings, with Notre Dame and Texas climbing to No. 2 and No. 3, respectively, behind the top-ranked UCLA Bruins, while South Carolina dropped to No. 4.

Looking ahead, expect more movement in the rankings, standings, and projected NCAA tournament field in the coming week. A marquee matchup between USC and UCLA is set for Thursday at the Galen Center. Sunday promises a pair of top-10 showdowns on ABC, starting with UConn taking on South Carolina at 1 p.m. ET, followed by LSU facing Texas at 3 p.m. The ACC also has some intriguing games, with NC State visiting North Carolina on Sunday and Duke at Notre Dame on Monday. These matchups will be must-watch events as the regular season nears its conclusion and postseason play approaches.

Power Rankings: Top Teams in Women’s College Basketball

• 1. UCLA Bruins (23-0)

The Bruins remain the last undefeated program standing after securing two wins last week, including a victory over ranked Ohio State. All eyes are on their Thursday matchup against crosstown rival USC, which could provide them with a significant test.

Next seven days: @ USC (Feb. 13), vs. Michigan State (Feb. 16)

• 2. Notre Dame Fighting Irish (21-2)

Notre Dame delivered a historic 49-point defeat to Stanford and followed it up by building a 23-point lead against Cal in the first half. With their impressive shooting and depth, the Irish show no signs of slowing down.

Next seven days: @ Pittsburgh (Feb. 13), vs. Duke (Feb. 17)

• 3. Texas Longhorns (24-2)

Star sophomore Madison Booker led the Longhorns in scoring, becoming the first Texas player since 2019 to compile 20 points and 10 rebounds against an AP top-10 opponent. Posts Taylor Jones and Kyla Oldacre also made significant contributions, combining for 24 points, 12 rebounds, and 6 steals.

Next seven days: @ Kentucky (Feb. 13), vs. LSU (Feb. 16)

• 4. South Carolina Gamecocks (22-2)

The Gamecocks suffered their second loss of the season, falling to Texas by just four points. This defeat marked their first SEC regular-season loss in 57 games.

Next seven days: vs. Florida (Feb. 13), vs. UConn (Feb. 16)

• 5. LSU Tigers (25-1)

LSU secured two tight wins over SEC foes Missouri and Tennessee. Kailyn Gilbert’s emergence as a reliable fourth scorer could be crucial for the Tigers as they aim to make a deep run in March.

Next seven days: @ Texas (Feb. 16)

As the regular season winds down, the excitement in women’s college basketball is palpable. With key matchups on the horizon and teams jostling for position in the rankings, fans can expect thrilling games and potential upsets. The road to the NCAA tournament is heating up, and every game counts as teams vie for a spot in the postseason. Stay tuned for more action and drama in the world of women’s college basketball.