In the annals of women’s college basketball, few defeats have resonated as profoundly as South Carolina’s 77–73 loss to Iowa in the 2023 NCAA Final Four. For Gamecocks head coach Dawn Staley, the sting of that game remains palpable. Reflecting on the loss, Staley candidly admitted, “That one hurt me really bad,” underscoring the emotional weight of the defeat.
Entering the 2023 Final Four, South Carolina was the reigning national champion, boasting a 42-game winning streak and an unblemished record. However, their aspirations for back-to-back titles were dashed by Caitlin Clark, Iowa’s standout guard, who delivered a historic 41-point performance—the highest ever in a women’s Final Four game. Staley acknowledged Clark’s prowess, stating, “She was on point. She was everything we saw on film.”
Beyond the immediate disappointment, Staley recognized the broader implications of the loss. She remarked, “I can look at ourselves like the sacrificial lambs,” suggesting that South Carolina’s defeat played a role in elevating the profile of women’s basketball. (sportskeeda.com)
The setback served as a catalyst for the Gamecocks. In the subsequent 2024 season, South Carolina achieved a perfect 38–0 record, culminating in an 87–75 victory over Iowa in the national championship game. The triumph was marked by standout performances from freshman Tessa Johnson, who scored 19 points, and center Kamilla Cardoso, who contributed 15 points and 17 rebounds.
In the aftermath of the championship, an emotional Staley praised Clark’s impact on the sport, stating, “You are one of the GOATs of our game and we appreciate you.” This acknowledgment highlighted the mutual respect between two of the game’s most influential figures.
Staley’s journey from the heartbreak of 2023 to the redemption of 2024 underscores her resilience and commitment to excellence. Her reflections on the loss and subsequent triumph serve as a testament to the evolving landscape of women’s basketball and the enduring spirit of competition.
