South Carolina’s women’s basketball team enters the 2025 NCAA Tournament as the top overall seed, leading the Birmingham 2 Region. This marks the Gamecocks’ fifth consecutive No. 1 seed under head coach Dawn Staley, reflecting their sustained excellence in collegiate women’s basketball.
Season Overview
The Gamecocks concluded the regular season with a 30-3 record, securing the Southeastern Conference (SEC) Tournament title by defeating Texas 64-45 in the finals. Their dominant performance throughout the season has solidified their status as a formidable force in the tournament.
Key Players
- Joyce Edwards: A pivotal player for South Carolina, Edwards has consistently delivered standout performances, contributing significantly to both offense and defense.
- MiLaysia Fulwiley: Known for her agility and scoring ability, Fulwiley has been instrumental in the Gamecocks’ offensive strategies.
- Chloe Kitts: Standing at 6’2″, Kitts has been a consistent starter, averaging over 10 points per game and leading the team in rebounding with 7.9 boards per game. Her clutch performances, especially in the SEC Tournament where she earned the Most Valuable Player award, highlight her importance to the team.
Birmingham 2 Region Overview
The Birmingham 2 Region is stacked with competitive teams, each aiming to challenge South Carolina’s dominance:
- No. 2 Seed Duke: The Blue Devils enter the tournament on a high note, having secured the ACC Tournament title with a decisive 76-52 victory over NC State. Their defense has been particularly noteworthy, forcing opponents into over 20 turnovers per game.
- No. 4 Seed Maryland: The Terrapins have shown resilience, winning four consecutive games to close the regular season. Hosting the first and second rounds at home provides them with a strategic advantage.
- No. 12 Seed Green Bay: The Phoenix are on a remarkable 22-game winning streak, clinching both the Horizon League regular season and tournament titles. Their defense ranks 17th nationally, holding opponents to 55.8 points per game.
Potential Challenges
While South Carolina is favored to advance, the tournament’s single-elimination format means that any team can pose a threat on a given day. Analysts have identified potential upsets, such as McNeese over Clemson and Yale over Texas A&M, underscoring the tournament’s unpredictability.
Expert Predictions
Despite a less dominant season compared to previous years, many experts still favor South Carolina to clinch the championship. Their experience and depth are seen as critical assets in navigating the challenges of March Madness.