The numbers
In a commanding performance, South Carolina defeated TCU 78-52 in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA tournament, securing their sixth consecutive Final Four appearance. The Gamecocks showcased their dominance throughout the tournament, having scored at least 90 points in their first three games.
Joyce Edwards led the charge for South Carolina, scoring a game-high 24 points and grabbing 12 rebounds. Her performance was pivotal, especially in the fourth quarter where South Carolina outscored TCU 29-11, sealing the victory. Agot Makeer also made a significant impact, scoring a career-high 18 points in her first Elite Eight appearance.
For TCU, Olivia Miles contributed with 18 points and six assists, but it was not enough to overcome the Gamecocks’ relentless offense. The loss marked a tough end for TCU, who fought hard but struggled to keep pace with South Carolina’s scoring prowess.
South Carolina’s head coach, Dawn Staley, emphasized the effort required to reach this level of competition, stating, “It doesn’t feel [ordinary] because of all the work that it requires to get to this place. It’s a lot.” Her leadership has been instrumental in guiding the team to this level of success.
Edwards reflected on the team’s mentality, noting, “The mentality has to be different… Everything — you’re in a state where every possession matters, every little thing matters.” This focus and determination were evident as the Gamecocks executed their game plan effectively.
Historically, South Carolina is just the second team in NCAA history to reach six straight Final Fours, a testament to their consistent performance under Staley, who has led the program to three national championships. Raven Johnson is the only player on the roster who has experienced the Final Four every year of her collegiate career, further highlighting the team’s depth and experience.
Looking ahead, South Carolina will face UConn in the national semifinals on April 3, 2026. This matchup is highly anticipated, as it marks the second time in NCAA history that the same four teams have competed in back-to-back Final Fours. Observers expect a competitive game as both teams vie for a spot in the championship.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any potential injuries or lineup changes as the Gamecocks prepare for their next challenge. However, their current momentum and performance suggest they will be a formidable opponent in the upcoming semifinal.
