COLUMBIA, S.C. — The South Carolina Gamecocks women's basketball team is poised to enter the 2025 NCAA Tournament with a mission: to defend their title. As they gear up to face the Tennessee Tech Golden Eagles, the Gamecocks' aspirations are not just to win another game, but to make history by repeating as national champions. With their first game set for Friday, March 21, 2025, at 4 p.m. ET at Colonial Life Arena, the anticipation is palpable.
Head coach Dawn Staley, who has led the team to remarkable success, stressed the importance of experience in the NCAA Tournament. "Yes, you can get lucky. But at some point, the experience kicks in," Staley remarked, showcasing her confidence in her players' capability to handle the pressures of high-stakes games. The Gamecocks, being the No. 1 seed in the Birmingham 2 region, boast a seasoned squad with many players who have previously worn championship rings.
As the defending national champions, having won titles in 2022 and 2024, the Gamecocks seek to be the first team to win back-to-back titles since UConn achieved this feat in 2016. Their previous successes provide them with a solid foundation as they face off against Tennessee Tech, who arrive with an impressive 17-game winning streak.
In her press conference before the game, Staley conveyed her excitement for not just the upcoming match, but for creating a thrilling environment at home in front of devoted fans. With South Carolina leading the nation in game attendance for the last decade, the home-court advantage could be a vital factor. "We are fortunate that we're playing at home, and there will be a lot of Gamecock fans in the stands that will help us, energize us," said Staley, highlighting the significance of their audience.
Tennessee Tech coach Kim Rosamond, who has long admired Staley’s leadership and toughness, expressed her respect for the Gamecocks’ program. "What I love so much about what (South Carolina) has done now is I think they’ve done it as well or better than anyone... taking modern-day basketball, the speed, the size, the skill, the transfer portal, NIL, but still blending it with the honor of the old school toughness and discipline," Rosamond stated. This mutual respect between the two coaches adds a personal element to the competition, setting the stage for an engaging match.
Staley’s dog, Champ, a beloved presence during practices and press conferences, added a heartwarming touch to the pre-tournament activities. As a thoughtful gesture, Rosamond presented Champ with a custom NCAA nameplate, a move that Staley deemed a “pretty cool gesture.” Reflecting on their friendship, Staley remarked, "I'm super happy for her, and I'm over the top that she would extend such a nice gift to my boy." This lighthearted moment underscores the camaraderie that exists even amid intense competition.
While South Carolina enters this tournament without individual All-America honorees, they possess a wealth of experience that Staley believes will be invaluable. Players such as Bree Hall and Sania Feagin have been part of the championship-winning squads, contributing to a deep understanding of what success requires during tournament play. Staley recalled how fatigue was once a concern for her team as they navigated the rigors of March Madness, but now she feels that they have developed the stamina to thrive during these intense games.
"It is paramount that you have experience with playing deep into this tournament. It’s not just about luck," Staley insisted, emphasizing the preparation that has been key to their success. As they contemplate their next steps, the focus remains firmly on their immediate challenge: defeating Tennessee Tech. This matchup will not only rekindle memories of past clashes but could also set in motion a pivotal journey towards another national championship.
The history is rich between these two teams — the last time they faced each other was back in 1989, with Tennessee Tech managing an upset against South Carolina in the NCAA Tournament. Both programs now stand at a crossroads, with the stakes ever higher as the Golden Eagles aim to extend their win streak against a powerhouse program. Rosamond acknowledged the task ahead of her players: "You knew it was going to be special," she said of preparing for a coach like Staley. Now, the question remains: can the Golden Eagles pull off another upset in this new era of basketball?
As the Gamecocks ready themselves for battle on Friday afternoon, all eyes will be fixed on Colonial Life Arena. With a legacy already established, and the chance to add another chapter to their storied history, Staley and her players are motivated by the idea of creating a legacy that extends beyond just championship titles. They continue to demonstrate that excellence in women’s basketball is not only attainable but sustainable.
The college basketball landscape eagerly anticipates this matchup, with the Gamecocks looking to maintain their elite status, while the Golden Eagles work for a moment of glory. In the end, it will be the experience of South Carolina’s players combined with the intensity of March Madness that may define how this tournament unfolds.
