Top-10 Showdown: Can No. 8 USC Shock No. 2 South Carolina in a Battle of Rising Powers?
1. History Between the Two Teams
The Gamecocks and Trojans don’t share a long rivalry, and their direct head-to-head history is limited. According to available records, USC’s program has an opponent history entry against South Carolina, which shows that USC lost both of the listed matchups:
- On 11/25/2013 USC lost to South Carolina 50-70. (USC Athletics)
- On 11/15/2014 USC lost again 61-70 at Columbia. (USC Athletics)
Thus, the Trojans are 0-2 in the documented historical matchups in that specific span.
More broadly, South Carolina’s women’s program is one of the elite in the nation, with consistent Final Four appearances and national championships.
Meanwhile, USC’s women’s team has been rising, with a recent jump into the top-10 rankings after a big win. (SI)
Because of the limited direct history, this game will serve as an opportunity for USC to challenge a national powerhouse and for South Carolina to reaffirm its dominance.
2. What to Expect & Chances of Winning
What to Expect
- South Carolina enters the matchup as a clear elite program: ranked No. 2, off a perfect start and strong non-conference performance. (ESPN.com)
- USC brings momentum: they’ve defeated quality competition and have been rewarded in the polls (jumping to No. 8) after a dramatic win over NC State. (SI)
- The game will likely be high-tempo, with emphasis on both teams executing on offense and containing transition opportunities.
- Given South Carolina’s depth and experience on the national stage, they may hold a slight advantage in consistency and composure.
Chances of Winning
- South Carolina: High chance to win, given program pedigree, ranking, and experience. If they play to their standard—efficient offense, stifling defense—they should prevail.
- USC: Real chance to upset if they execute well, particularly in limiting South Carolina’s strengths, making shots, and controlling momentum. For this game to go their way, USC needs to force South Carolina into uncomfortable positions and capitalize.
In short, South Carolina is favored but must avoid complacency; USC has the talent and confidence to make this a competitive—and possibly surprising—outcome.
3. Lapses & Areas of Focus for Each Team
South Carolina – Lapses & Focus Areas
- Roster/Availability Issues: South Carolina recently had a suspension of sophomore guard Maddy McDaniel, with coach Dawn Staley acknowledging, > “That’s on her. We’ll evaluate it every day.” (CBS Sports) This raises questions about depth and rotation.
- Defensive lapses / transition defense: Although not detailed for this specific matchup, even elite programs have moments where defensive intensity slips. South Carolina must stay locked in.
- Maintaining consistency: With high expectations comes pressure. Staley’s team must avoid early runs by USC and ensure they execute from start to finish.
Focus areas: Ensure full roster cohesion despite disruptions; maintain defensive standards throughout the game; control the pace early; limit turnovers; capitalize in halfcourt and transition to avoid giving USC momentum.
USC – Lapses & Focus Areas
- Limited historical success vs. elite programs: Against top-tier teams like South Carolina, the Trojans must prove they can consistently execute under pressure.
- Offensive efficiency and depth: In their signature win they had standout performances (e.g., freshman guard Jazzy Davidson’s big game) (SI), but sustaining that level across the roster and through full 40 minutes is key.
- Defensive containment: They must guard the interior and perimeter, limit South Carolina’s go-to scorers, prevent easy baskets, and avoid getting into foul trouble.
Focus areas: Build early confidence and momentum; make three-pointers and inside shots count; limit turnovers; match South Carolina’s physical and mental intensity; get contributions from the full lineup, not just the stars.
Final Thoughts
This matchup is more than just a game—it’s a statement opportunity. For South Carolina, it’s about reinforcing their status as an elite program and showing they can handle a rising competitor. For USC, it’s a chance to announce themselves on a national scale, prove they belong in the top tier, and perhaps deliver a signature upset.
Both teams will be well prepared, but the edge likely goes to South Carolina—if they stay focused, avoid distractions, and play their brand of basketball. USC, on the other hand, must bring their best, start strong, and not give the Gamecocks a chance to settle into dominance.
Expect an electric atmosphere, high-level play, and a game that could shape momentum for both teams early in the 2025-26 season.
