What We Know About No. 3 South Carolina vs. Texas (WBB)
Historical Clash
South Carolina and Texas don’t meet often, but when they do, the games tend to carry weight. Both programs are national powers with championship pedigrees, and their recent matchups have been tightly contested, physical, and emotionally charged. While Texas has traditionally been strong in guard play and tempo, South Carolina’s recent success under Dawn Staley has tilted the balance toward defensive dominance and postseason consistency. Every meeting now feels like a potential Final Four preview.
Style of Play
South Carolina thrives on defense, rebounding, and depth. The Gamecocks pressure the ball, protect the paint, and wear opponents down with waves of athletic defenders. Offensively, they don’t rely on one scorer, instead spreading production across the lineup and punishing teams inside.
Texas brings a more guard-driven, up-tempo approach. The Longhorns are at their best when pushing the pace, forcing turnovers, and turning defense into transition offense. They space the floor well and are comfortable letting their playmakers create late in the shot clock.
This clash of styles—South Carolina’s physical control versus Texas’ speed and skill—will likely determine the outcome.
Players to Watch
South Carolina
- Joyce Edwards – A versatile scorer who can attack off the dribble, rebound, and defend multiple positions.
- Madina Okot – Key interior presence who anchors the paint and controls the glass.
- Ta’Niya Latson – If fully available, her scoring punch adds another layer to the Gamecocks’ offense.
Texas
- Rori Harmon – The engine of the Longhorns. Her decision-making and defensive pressure can swing momentum quickly.
- Madison Booker – A matchup problem with her size, shooting touch, and ability to score from all three levels.
Who’s In and Who’s Out
South Carolina continues to manage availability carefully. Latson has been working back from injury and is trending toward readiness, while midseason addition Alicia Tournebize remains a developing option as she acclimates to the system. Texas enters the matchup with its core rotation largely intact, giving them continuity and rhythm.
Possible Outcome
Expect a tight, physical game. If South Carolina controls the boards and limits Texas’ transition opportunities, the Gamecocks can dictate tempo. If Texas forces turnovers and gets hot from the perimeter, the Longhorns can put South Carolina under pressure late.
Prediction
This game likely comes down to the final minutes. South Carolina’s depth, defensive discipline, and home-court edge give them a slight advantage.
Prediction: South Carolina wins a close one, 70–66, in a matchup that feels every bit like March basketball in January.
