The Gamecocks shot just 29% from the floor and were outscored by 28 points, one of the largest margins in championship history. It is the second consecutive year South Carolina has fallen flat in the title game, after a 82-59 loss to UConn in 2025.
Despite the defeat, Dawn Staley’s program remains strong. Key players Joyce Edwards, Tessa Johnson, Madina Okot, Chloe Kitts, and potential return of Ashlyn Watkins will keep the team competitive, and a new leader will step up after Raven Johnson’s departure.