Women’s March Madness: Elite Eight Takes Shape as Top Seeds Advance
As the excitement of March Madness continues to unfold, half of the Elite Eight is now set, and the competition is heating up. On Friday, No. 1 seeds UCLA and South Carolina secured their spots with impressive victories. Joining them is No. 2 seed Duke, while the third-seeded LSU Tigers pulled off an upset against No. 2 seed NC State in the Spokane 1 Regional.
So, who will join the Bruins, Gamecocks, Blue Devils, and Tigers in the Elite Eight? The regional semifinals resume on Saturday at 1 p.m. ET on ABC, with a thrilling rematch between Notre Dame and TCU, a game that promises to be as exciting as their November nonconference clash.
We’re keeping a close eye on every game as the march to the Final Four continues. Here’s your guide, complete with analysis from on-site reporters in Birmingham, Alabama, and Spokane, Washington, to Friday’s games.
LSU vs. NC State: Tigers Roar into Elite Eight
Final: LSU 80, NC State 73
How LSU won: In a game filled with momentum swings, LSU delivered the final blow. Trailing by five points with just over four minutes left, Mikaylah Williams and Sa’Myah Smith took charge, scoring LSU’s final 16 points to secure the lead. Williams, despite a slow start, ended strong, making four of her last five shots and finishing with six assists. Smith, recovering from a knee injury, recorded her second consecutive game with at least 20 points and 10 rebounds, providing a significant boost to LSU’s frontcourt.
LSU’s victory was also fueled by Aneesah Morrow, who became the first player since Stanford’s Nneka Ogwumike in 2010 to score at least 30 points and grab 15 rebounds in a Sweet 16 game or later. Morrow’s dominance on the boards, particularly with nine offensive rebounds, was crucial in LSU’s win.
Despite some strong moments from NC State’s guards, LSU’s defense held Aziaha James and Saniya Rivers to a combined 6-for-21 shooting. NC State struggled in the final minutes, failing to score in the last two minutes of the game.
LSU’s keys to the Elite Eight: With Morrow’s early impact and Williams and Smith closing the game, LSU overcame a quiet performance from Flau’Jae Johnson, who scored just three points. LSU is undefeated this season when Johnson scores at least 20 points, highlighting her importance to the team’s success. The Tigers are now headed to their 11th Elite Eight appearance and third straight under coach Kim Mulkey, who continues to find ways to win despite changes in the roster.
UCLA vs. Ole Miss: Bruins Dominate with Betts’ Brilliance
Final: UCLA 76, Ole Miss 62
How UCLA won: The answer is simple: Lauren Betts. The junior center was unstoppable, scoring 31 points on 15-of-16 shooting. Her defensive presence was equally impactful, limiting Ole Miss to just 2-of-16 shooting on shots she contested. Betts’ performance was reminiscent of Brittney Griner’s dominance, as she became the third player in the past 25 seasons with multiple 30-point, 10-rebound games in a single NCAA tournament.
While Betts was the star, UCLA’s guards also stepped up. Londynn Jones and Kiki Rice combined for 20 points in the second half, helping to relieve some of the scoring pressure from Betts. Their contributions were crucial in maintaining UCLA’s momentum.
UCLA’s keys to the Elite Eight: The Bruins are set for a rematch with LSU, a team they lost to in last year’s Sweet 16. This time, getting Betts more involved will be key. Whether she’s scoring or facilitating for her teammates, Betts’ presence will be vital. Defensively, UCLA will need to focus on containing LSU’s big three and controlling the glass to secure a spot in the Final Four.
South Carolina vs. Maryland: Gamecocks Survive a Scare
Final: South Carolina 71, Maryland 67
How South Carolina won: When the Gamecocks needed a hero, MiLaysia Fulwiley answered the call. Her clutch plays, including a crucial bucket and an assist, helped South Carolina regain the lead. Fulwiley’s 23 points were a career high in the NCAA tournament, and her performance was instrumental in South Carolina’s victory.
South Carolina’s keys to the Elite Eight: Facing Duke on Sunday, South Carolina will need to handle the Blue Devils’ defensive pressure. In their previous meeting, South Carolina emerged victorious, but turnovers were an issue against Maryland. If the Gamecocks can maintain their composure and improve their shooting, they’ll have a strong chance of advancing to the Final Four.
Duke vs. North Carolina: Blue Devils’ Defense Shines
Final: Duke 47, North Carolina 38
How Duke won: The Blue Devils’ defense was the star of the show, holding North Carolina to just 28.3% shooting. The Tar Heels’ 20 first-half points were among the lowest in their NCAA tournament history. Duke’s balanced offensive attack, led by Oluchi Okananwa and Ashlon Jackson, secured the win.
Duke’s keys to the Elite Eight: Against South Carolina, Duke’s defensive prowess will be crucial. However, their shooting must improve to compete with the Gamecocks. A standout offensive performance, combined with their usual defensive intensity, will be necessary for Duke to reach their first Final Four since 2006.
- Key Players to Watch: Mikaylah Williams, Lauren Betts, MiLaysia Fulwiley, Oluchi Okananwa
- Upcoming Matchups: Notre Dame vs. TCU, South Carolina vs. Duke
- Elite Eight Appearances: LSU (11th), UCLA, South Carolina, Duke
Originally Written by: ESPN
