South Carolina Eyes Another Title as Columbia Gears Up for National Championship Showdown
Everything has built up to this moment.
The University of South Carolina women’s basketball team, ranked at or near the top all season, is now one win away from securing its fourth national championship. After a commanding 74-57 victory over Texas in the Final Four, the defending national champions are headed to Tampa, Florida, for a highly anticipated showdown against UConn on Sunday at 3 p.m., airing live on ABC.
While many Gamecock fans have traveled to Tampa to witness history, thousands more will be watching from home—or better yet, from some of Columbia’s top watch party spots. Across Columbia and the Midlands, bars and restaurants are preparing for a Sunday afternoon packed with garnet, black, and championship dreams.
Here are some top spots where fans can eat, drink, and cheer on the Gamecocks:
Market on Main
1320 Main St., Columbia, SC
For the ultimate viewing experience, Market on Main boasts a massive 23-foot jumbo outdoor screen, perfect for catching every moment of the title game. Located in the heart of downtown Columbia, it’s a premier destination for big games, good food, and vibrant energy.
Steel Hands Vista & Cayce
Vista: 705-A Gervais St. | Cayce: 2350 Foreman St.
Steel Hands has long been a fan favorite, and now with two Midlands locations, it’s doubling the Gamecock spirit. The Vista location recently hosted a Final Four party in partnership with Gamecock Central, featuring garnet-themed cocktails like the Golden Swish, made with their own Steelquila, raspberry purée, and lime. The Cayce location, home to the Sand Storm Gameday Lager, also promises a lively, TV-filled setting to catch the action.
Home Team BBQ Columbia
700 Harden St., Five Points
Barbecue and basketball? Yes, please. Home Team BBQ in Five Points is a tournament staple, with TVs in every direction and a menu packed with fan favorites—from ribs and mac-and-cheese to Fiery Ron’s burger, one of Columbia’s best-kept secrets. It’s perfect for fans who want great food and an electric game day vibe.
Thirsty Fellow Pizzeria & Pub
621 Gadsden St., Columbia
Just steps from Colonial Life Arena, Thirsty Fellow is a beloved haunt for die-hard fans. Known for its stone-fired pizzas and cozy atmosphere, it’s a traditional stop for pregame or postgame gatherings—but also a fantastic place to watch the team on the big stage. Don’t skip the Philly cheesesteak with sweet potato fries.
Top Dawg Tavern
498 Town Center Place, Village at Sandhill
For those in northeast Columbia, Top Dawg Tavern delivers. With a large dining space full of TVs and a versatile menu of burgers, wings, nachos, salads, and cocktails, it’s a go-to for Gamecock fans looking to catch every second in comfort—indoors or on the patio.
Whether you’re downtown, in Five Points, or out in the suburbs, there’s no shortage of Gamecock spirit around Columbia this weekend. And with one game left, the only thing left to say is: One more. Let’s bring it home.
