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In a historic outing, the South Carolina Gamecocks defeated the Iowa Hawkeyes 87-75 to capture the NCAA Women's Championship. South Carolina dominated in every way, from bench points to rebounds and defense. Iowa simply could not match their prolific three-pointer shooting and size.
One year ago, Caitlin Clark and the Iowa Hawkeyes knocked off South Carolina, ruining their perfect season in the Final Four. This time around, the Gamecocks were crowned champions, finishing a perfect 38-0 to finish out the season. Led by head coach Dawn Staley, the Gamecocks cruised into the history books on Sunday. For Gamecocks sophomore guard Raven Johnson, she got the last laugh.
Defeating Iowa 87-75, the Gamecocks are just the 10th team in Women's NCAA history to finish with a perfect season. As for Dawn Staley, she's built a dynasty in her tenure as head coach of South Carolina. Since taking over for Susan Walvius in 2008-2009, she's led the Gamecocks to three national championships. What's even more impressive is the fact she's captivated three trophies over the last seven seasons. Over the last decade, she's coached 10 WNBA first-round picks, soon to be 11.
Heading into the biggest game of the year, Staley was in attendance for the UConn vs. Iowa game. She had the perfect plan all along on how to perfectly utilize every single player on her roster. She figured out a way to stop the most prolific scorer in NCAA history, Caitlin Clark, which speaks volumes in itself. In a highly anticipated matchup, Staley brilliantly mapped out her masterful scheme to attack the Hawkeyes on the boards and utilize depth and size to crush them.
Although the 2022-2023 squad finished with a 36-1 record, it was a tough task to fill those shoes in the offseason.
Dawn Staley and the Gamecocks made history
Not only did South Carolina finish their first undefeated season in program history, but Staley is the first black Division 1 basketball coach, men's or women's, to lead her team to a perfect season. In doing so, Staley fully reconstructed her roster after losing all five of her starters--Aliyah Boston, Zia Cooke,?Laeticia Amihere,?and?Victaria Saxton to the 2023 WNBA Draft.
Johnson was the subject of several memes and viral highlights after she was disrespected in their last matchup. In last year's Final Four, Clark waved off Johnson, leaving her wide open at the three-point line. While Johnson had the opportunity to shoot the trey ball, she passed up the rock. After that matchup, Johnson confessed to watching the film over 100 times.
One year removed from the March Madness tournament, Johnson found herself as the primary lockdown defender on Caitlin Clark, Although Johnson struggled on the offensive end, she was tasked with guarding the Iowa sensation. Clark shot just 5-21 from the field when defended by Johnson. After she finished with 18 first-half points, coach Staley called for a change. She switched out Bree Hall on Clark, for Johnson. A menace on the defensive front, Johnson finished with four steals and two blocks. She understood her assignment, which was arguably the hardest task of anyone on the team.
Before the game, Johnson had a simple game plan in mind, "don't let her [Clark] score." She took the loss personally last year and had some words about her defensive approach:
"I was ready for the moment and take defense very hard, said Raven Johnson. "I studied her moves[ Caitlin Clark], and I was ready--I had confidence this year, and I was telling myself last year wasn't going to happen again."
Caitlin Clark was smothered by Raven Johnson
In the end, Clark couldn't lead her team to a National Championship, finishing with 30 points, eight rebounds, and five assists, on 10-28 shooting from the floor. Falling to win a championship for the second consecutive year, let's not take away from coach Lisa Bluder and the exceptional work she's put into the Iowa program. While Clark headlined the entire season, it was the story of her teammates, and her friends, that made the Iowa program so great. Sophomore Hannah Stuelke who's a rising star, had 11 points, three rebounds, two assists, and two blocks in the championship game.
With South Carolina chosen as heavy favorites entering the championship game, it was Iowa that held a 27-20 first-quarter lead. After an early 10-0 run, starting with a Kate Martin trey ball, the Hawkeyes looked untouchable and unbeatable. It wasn't until Te-Hina Paopao's three-point jumper that sent South Carolina in front with 27 seconds left in the second quarter. After commanding a 49-47 first-half lead, the Gamecocks never looked back. Paopao, who transferred to South Carolina for this very moment, finished with 14 points, on 75 percent three-point shooting. She announced her return to Columbia for next season.
Kamilla Cardoso had a career night on the boards
With defensive player of the year Kamilla Cardoso the anchor for South Carolina, it was the bench that grabbed the spotlight. Having one of the deepest rosters in the nation, the bench added 37 points for Staley and the Gamecocks. While the scoring was evenly distributed throughout the 10-player roster, it was the freshman who shined through.
Minnesota native Tessa Johnson was recruited by Staley to produce off the bench in her first season. A 6'1 guard, Johnson had a season average of 6.6 points, 1.7 rebounds, and 1.1 assists. In 35 games played, she earned the starting nod just two times for Staley and the Gamecocks. Although her minutes and scoring remained inconsistent for a great part of the season, Johnson has been a staple for the Staleys stay-ready group off the bench.
However, it's clear the freshman guard was recruited for a reason, and eventually earned coach Staley's trust. As the NCAA tournament progressed, so did her contributions to the team. After a season-high 30 minutes played against Presbyterian in the first round, the former McDonalds All-American continued to show why she's such a valuable asset to this squad. She finished with a combined 26 points against UNC in the Sweet 16, and Oregon State, in the Elite Eight. The trust was there for Johnson to earn 25 minutes of playing time against Iowa, and she shined in the biggest stage.
South Carolina's freshmen stole the show
And what a career night it was for Tessa Johnson. In front of the entire nation, and 18.9 million viewers, the freshman put up a career-high 19 points on 7-11 (63.6 percent) from the floor, and 3-6 (50 percent) from beyond the arc. Let's call it the "Tessa Johnson effect." In transition, or inside, Johnson was a bucket.
For Dawn Staley, her rotations were set for this matchup. While Iowa's bench didn't produce a single point, the Gamecocks capitalized on that. For freshman MiLaysia Fulwiley, she proved why she's the next generational talent. At 5'10, she possesses the quickness, speed, and finesse that no other athlete has proven in the game. In 18 minutes, she added nine points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists, and one block.
Overall, all of Staley's players had a crucial role in the Championship game. Running double bigs with Cardoso and Chloe Kitts was brilliant, as Iowa was a bit undersized. Ashlyn Watkins, Sania Feagin--everyone had a piece of the pie. It was the overall collaborative effort that impressed me the most. While it's normal for coaches to shorten their rotations during championship moments, Staley put the nation on full display who in fact plays for her.
As for Kamilla Cardoso, she certainly increased her draft stock on Sunday. Declaring for the 2024 WNBA Draft as a senior, center shined, even while battling an injury. It was in the Final Four matchup, where she injured her knee against NC State. Although she received treatment, Cardoso made sure the injury didn't stop her from competing in the biggest moment.
South Carolina Gamecocks were too powerful in depth and size
The bottom line, the Iowa Hawkeyes weren't able to match South Carolina's size, especially with Cardoso listed as 6'7. Cardoso has been a problem the entire season for opponents and showed exactly why in the title game. Although Staley managed her minutes to perfection, Cardoso finished with 15 points and a career-high 17 rebounds. While 10 of those came on the defensive end, seven helped the Gamecocks control the offensive boards and second-chance opportunities. South Carolina ultimately obliterated Iowa on the boards, 51-29.
Cardoso, named Most Outstanding Player, put it all on the floor in her last collegiate game. Adding three blocks and two assists, the Brazil native was simply getting it done on both ends of the floor. When Iowa continued to drive inside, Cardoso was there to lock it up. With several and one opportunities, not even Iowa standout Hannah Stuelke could stop her. Outscoring Iowa 48-32 in the paint, Chloe Kitts poured in a double-double as well, with 11 points, and 10 rebounds.
Sunday was the ultimate matchup between the most outstanding offensive in the nation (Iowa) vs. the top defense (South Carolina).
After the game, the tears were flowing for coach Staley. In a post-game interview with Holly Rowe, Staley stated "We serve an unbelievable god," before breaking down in tears. With all of the hard work she's put into the program, it's always been her relationship with her faith and God that's made all things possible this season.
Hats off to both teams. No matter what the outcome, the growth of both teams has shaped the future of women's basketball for years to come.
Stay tuned for more?NCAA and WNBA-related?articles.?Click here
Sara Jane Gamelli is a full-time Sportswriter, Content Creator and Social Media Manager for Ballislife Bets.?She has a focus on the NBA, WNBA, NCAA Basketball, and the NFL. Sara Jane currently resides in Connecticut/NYC area with her Cat and Dog. SJ has her undergraduate degree from the?University?of Connecticut in Economics, with a minor in business administration.
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]]>Under the leadership of SEC Coach of the Year Dawn Staley, the South Carolina Gamecocks have completed another season without a single loss. In their final regular-season game, they secured a 76-68 victory over Tennessee, wrapping up another successful campaign.
You have to give credit where credit is due. Dawn Staley has undeniably left her mark at South Carolina, with a legacy that extends far beyond the basketball court. In doing so, she's built a dynasty.
What an incredible year it has been for the South Carolina Gamecocks women's basketball team. With back-to-back undefeated seasons, Dawn Staley earned the title of SEC Coach of the Year, and several players earned personal awards. While their achievements may have been somewhat overlooked amidst historic records elsewhere, we cannot ignore the immense success of this program and the positive impact Staley is making.
Since Dawn Staley took over as head coach of the South Carolina Gamecocks in the 2008-2009 season, she has led them to two national titles, notably securing their first in 2017. In a career 537 games, she has a remarkable 431-106 win loss record during her tenure. Following a heartbreaking loss to Iowa in the semifinals in 2023, the Gamecocks surprised many with their remarkable comeback season this year. Not even Staley saw this coming.
Staley is funny, yet determined. Despite describing her team as "chatty in practice," the performance they deliver on the court often contrasts with the atmosphere during practice sessions.
After all, Staley's memorable remark about being called "boo" amidst the boos during their rival victory against LSU is one for the books.
The Gamecocks were expected to regress from last year
"I got three outfits packed, I'm hoping to use all of them."
— SEC Network (@SECNetwork) March 7, 2024
Championship mindset for Dawn Staley
@GamecockWBB pic.twitter.com/dlFKvV8SWM
After a season of South Carolina's 29-0 dominance, Coach Staley was anticipated to face setbacks as five key players, including Aliyah Boston and Zia Cooke, departed for the WNBA Draft. With this loss, many expected the Gamecocks to regress after reaching the final four the previous year.
In a year full of surprises, Staley crafted one of her finest teams. Despite expectations for a rebuilding season, Kamilla Cardoso, named SEC Sixth Woman of the Year, shone as a standout player excelling on both offense and defense.
South Carolina bolstered its roster by adding senior guard Te-Hina Paopao from Oregon, who has chosen to return to the program for another season. Furthermore, senior center Sakima Walker transferred to the program from Rutgers, providing additional depth and talent to the team.
Key players such as Bree Hall, Chloe Kitts, Raven Johnson, Ashlyn Watkins, and Sania Feagin returned for South Carolina, providing continuity and strength to the team. Coach Staley also found success with the recruitment of freshman MiLaysia Fulwiley, who has shown promise in her debut season. In fact, she was named All-Freshman SEC team.
South Carolina's dominance started from the beginning of the season
One for history books! SC vs. LSU was everything and some more. The gamecocks battled to stay undeafeated! pic.twitter.com/RNhEcR7vAO
— Ballislife Womens Basketball (@ballislifewbb_) January 26, 2024
The Gamecocks started off on the right foot, defeating Notre Dame in a specialty debut game in Paris. From there, South Carolina had strong defeats over No. 14 Maryland, No. 24 North Carolina, No. 11 Utah, No. 9 LSU, and No. 11 UConn. With an astonishing 258 point differential in their first five games against Notre Dame, Maryland, Clemson, South Dakota State, and Mississippi Valley State, they made shockwaves around the basketball world.
During their commanding season, the Gamecocks showcased their defensive prowess by holding teams like Clemson, Morgan State, Presbyterian, East Carolina, Kentucky, Missouri, and Alabama to 45 points or fewer.
A standout moment occurred on November 24th when they secured a historic 101-19 victory over Mississippi Valley State University, conceding just seven points in the second half. While not all opponents were highly ranked, these performances underscored the exceptional quality of the team's defense.
Additionally, Tessa Johnson from Albertville, Minnesota, was signed as the No. 25 recruit, although she hasn't seen much playing time yet. Staley also brought in freshman forward Sahnya Jah to add depth to the roster.
This season, South Carolina essentially debuted a fresh starting lineup.
Staley not only had a completely new starting five, but Cardoso also showcased remarkable improvement, posting career-best statistics. In her third season with the Gamecocks, she averaged 25 minutes, 14.1 points, 10 rebounds, 2 assists, and shot an impressive 58.1% from the field. Cardoso's outstanding performance earned her the title of SEC Defensive Player of the Year.
With near double-double averages on a consistent basis, the Brazilian native showcased her dominance with a remarkable stretch of 24 blocks in just eight games from January 15 to February 18. Serving as the anchor of the team, Cardoso delivered a standout performance in her final regular season game against Tennessee, tallying 18 points and 14 rebounds.
Dawn Staley's exceptional leadership was once again recognized as she earned the title of SEC Coach of the Year for the third consecutive season. Beyond her coaching prowess, it's the small gestures off the court that truly resonate with her players, capturing their attention and admiration. To be a great coach, there must be a connection and love for the players, and Staley showed that on Senior Day. Get ready to bring your tissues out.
Dawn Staley reunited Kamilla Cardoso with her family
SEC Awards are in – 6⃣ Gamecocks are honored!
— South Carolina Women's Basketball (@GamecockWBB) March 5, 2024
Starting with @Kamillascsilva pic.twitter.com/mHQayvngkN
If you weren't aware, senior standout Kamilla Cardoso hails from Brazil, where she left her family during middle school to chase her basketball aspirations in the United States. Despite facing numerous obstacles, she secured a scholarship to Syracuse but ultimately transferred to South Carolina in her second year. Now, as she pursues her dream of playing in the WNBA, Coach Staley orchestrated an emotionally stirring surprise during last Saturday's practice.
Senior day is already an emotional occasion, but celebrating it without loved ones would be incredibly challenging. To Coach Staley's credit, she took the initiative to ensure that Kamilla Cardoso's family could be present to watch her during her final collegiate game. This thoughtful gesture undoubtedly added a significant layer of meaning to the occasion for Cardoso and her family.
Initially denied entry to the US, Coach Staley intervened, contacting state representatives to facilitate the arrival of Kamilla Cardoso's mother, Janete Soares, and sister, Jessica Silva, from Brazil to South Carolina.
For the South Carolina Gamecocks, it's bigger than basketball
Family over everything
— South Carolina Women's Basketball (@GamecockWBB) March 2, 2024@kamillascsilva pic.twitter.com/Qh1opAgli0
It was the first time her family had ever seen her play a college game in person.
"This is kind of an incredible moment for all of us, " said Staley in practice. "For someone that's made incredible sacrifices for her family for the past eight years. For the past eight years, just for this game. Just for the game that she loves. " (South Carolina Women's Basketball X account)
Despite the challenges, the emotional reunion was evident, leaving Cardoso visibly shocked and moved, with her hands covering her face as her family entered the practice facility. In such a wholesome moment, Staley showed that it's so much more than basketball. Her drive and empathy to facilitate this move spoke volumes.
"We got a chance to do something pretty special, yup, yup, " said coach Staley. "Kamilla, let's bring the people who also made that sacrifice for the past eight years. To be away from your family for as long as you've been away from your family, we wanted to make this day special." (South Carolina Women's Basketball X account).
And just like that, the best coach in all of women's basketball just reunited her star player with her family. She's been seen supporting former players off the court, such as A'ja Wilson in the WNBA Finals at the Barclays center. Her ability to connect with current and former players is truly heartwarming.
Now that the seniors have received their perfect sendoff, the Gamecocks are gearing up to face Texas A&M on Friday night in the SEC tournament. With few weaknesses in their game, South Carolina appears poised for yet another outstanding season under the leadership of Coach Staley.
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Sara Jane Gamelli is a full-time Sportswriter, Content Creator and Social Media Manager at Ballislife. She has a focus on the NBA, WNBA, NCAA Basketball, and the NFL. Sara Jane currently resides in Connecticut/NYC area with her Cat and Dog. SJ has her undergraduate degree from the University of Connecticut in Economics, with a minor in business administration.
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