Basketball Gods Silent as Gamecocks Fall: Fans, Faith & a Season to Remember
Sometimes, no matter how much heart, hustle—or superstition—you pour in, the basketball gods just don’t smile your way. Despite every effort from diehard fans swapping shirts, shoes, glasses and even chairs mid-game, the University of South Carolina Women’s Basketball team ended their magical season with an 82-59 loss to UConn in the NCAA national championship game on Sunday in Tampa, Florida.
With that defeat, Coach Dawn Staley and her team were denied a second straight national title and what would have been their fourth overall. Still, the Gamecocks closed out an incredible year with a 35-4 record, battling through adversity and winning the hearts of fans across the nation.
But fandom is often about more than wins and losses—it’s about hope, and sometimes even ritual. “Fan” is, after all, short for fanatic.
One Gamecocks supporter recounted watching the Sweet 16 matchup against Maryland, where USC trailed at halftime. Desperate to shift the energy, he changed his hat, glasses, shoes—and even switched chairs. South Carolina rallied to win 71-67. Meanwhile, his father stepped outside during the same game. When the Gamecocks took the lead, he stayed on the porch, asking for text updates instead of risking his “good luck.”
“I know it sounds silly,” the fan admitted, “but it felt like we were helping somehow—even if just by sending out good vibes.”
But in the title game against UConn, even the strongest vibes couldn’t turn the tide. Down by 10 at halftime, more attempts were made—changing shirts, removing socks, switching chairs, even heading out to the porch. But the Huskies were just too dominant, both physically and, it seems, spiritually.
Still, for many, this season’s Gamecocks were more than just a basketball team—they were a symbol of resilience and joy.
“This team,” the fan said, “was probably my all-time favorite. College or pro, men’s or women’s. Because they were great and imperfect.”
From Sania Feagin and Chloe Kitts grinding in the paint, to MiLaysia Fulwiley flashing artistry on fast breaks, and Joyce Edwards blossoming before fans’ eyes—it was a team that played with swagger, soul, and sheer love for the game.
And unlike last year’s unbeaten squad, this team had to overcome bumps in the road. They weren’t untouchable—but they were relatable. “Don’t we all take some losses in life?” the fan asked. “Don’t we all have moments we stumble?”
That’s what made this team so human—and so beloved. Under Dawn Staley’s unwavering leadership, they chased the highest goals with grit and grace. And when they came up short, they vowed to try again.
For the people of Columbia, South Carolina, the team means more than trophies. They bring warmth during cold winter months. They lift spirits. They give light.
“The South Carolina women’s basketball team is the heart of this city,” the fan said.
“And that heart still beats.”
