South Carolina Falls 79-51 to UCLA in Title Game

South Carolina was outplayed by UCLA, shooting only 29% from the field and falling 28 points in the championship game. The loss, the second consecutive title‑game defeat, ended Dawn Staley’s 15‑year quest for a fourth national title.

Despite the setback, the program remains strong with key players Joyce Edwards and Tessa Johnson returning, veteran Chloe Kitts coming back from an ACL injury, and prospects like Ashlyn Watkins and the new recruiting class. The Gamecocks will look to fill the leadership void left by Raven Johnson and build momentum for a 2027 Final Four run.