COLUMBIA, S.C. – The South Carolina Gamecocks, currently ranked No. 2, are gearing up to face Tennessee Tech in the opening round of the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament on Friday, March 21, 2025. The highly anticipated game will tip off at approximately 4 p.m. at Colonial Life Arena and will be broadcast live on ESPN.
Under the guidance of head coach Dawn Staley, this marks the Gamecocks' 21st appearance in the NCAA Tournament and their 13th consecutive year in the tournament under Staley’s leadership. They have achieved remarkable success, earning a regional No. 1 seed for the fifth straight season and the ninth time overall during Staley’s tenure. Impressively, they hold a perfect 12-0 record in first-round games with her at the helm.
The Gamecocks recently completed an impressive run in the SEC Tournament, where they secured the Regular-Season and Tournament championships. This marks the third consecutive year they have claimed both titles, and the seventh time in the last eleven seasons. Their success in the SEC Tournament included notable victories over two top-10 teams, highlighted by their historic win against the AP’s No. 1 ranked Texas.
During the SEC Tournament, South Carolina showcased their strength, dominating their opponents in the second quarter by an average of 13.3 points while limiting them to just 21.6% shooting. The team's field goal percentage of .465 and defense of .351 rank them 16th and 6th in the nation respectively, emphasizing their defensive prowess and offensive efficiency amid the toughest schedule in the country. Notably, they led the nation with 42.6 points scored in the paint per game, which accounted for over half (52.9%) of their total offense.
In what has been a stellar season, a record-tying four Gamecocks were recognized with All-America honors, including Joyce Edwards and Chloe Kitts, who received honorable mention selections from both the USBWA and the AP. MiLaysia Fulwiley and Te-Hina Paopao also secured spots on the AP list, further solidifying the team's reputation.
Chloe Kitts, after a standout performance with a triple-double against Ole Miss on February 27, has continued to shine, leading the Gamecocks with averages of 15.6 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game, shooting an impressive 64.7% during this period. Kitts was also awarded the Tournament MVP during the SEC Tournament. Joining her on the All-Tournament Team, MiLaysia Fulwiley averaged 13.0 points, along with leading the team in assists and steals, while Sania Feagin shot 75% from the field across the tournament.
As the Gamecocks prepare for the tournament, they have a strong history against their first-round opponent, Tennessee Tech, having faced the Golden Eagles six times, with South Carolina winning four of those matchups. The last encounter was back in 1989 when Tennessee Tech upset South Carolina with a 77-73 victory in the first round, a memory that adds an intriguing layer to this matchup.
Tennessee Tech emerges as a No. 16 seed in this tournament, and although they are the underdogs, they bring a competitive spirit to the contest. For fans supporting their teams at the Colonial Life Arena, it is crucial to note that the arena has a strict clear-bag policy. Permitted items include clear bags no larger than 12” x 6” x 12”, small clutch bags, and one-gallon clear freezer bags, while prohibited items include larger purses, backpacks, and outside food or drink. Authorities at the venue will ensure that all bags are subject to inspection upon entry.
In a lighter moment ahead of the tournament, head coach Dawn Staley received a thoughtful gift from Tennessee Tech’s head coach Kim Rosamond, who brought in a nameplate for Staley’s dog, Champ. This charming gesture has added a bit of warmth to the competitive atmosphere.
As the Gamecocks take to the court this Friday, all eyes will undoubtedly be on them as they aim to maintain their formidable status in women’s basketball, showcasing the talent and tenacity that has become synonymous with the South Carolina program. Whether they will advance past the first round remains to be seen, but their track record certainly paints a picture of a team ready for the challenge.
