In the 2025 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament, the South Carolina Gamecocks and the Duke Blue Devils are set to face off in a highly anticipated Elite Eight matchup. This game marks a significant rematch, as the two teams previously met during the SEC/ACC Challenge on December 5, where South Carolina secured an 81-70 victory.
Team Overview:
South Carolina Gamecocks:
Under the leadership of Coach Dawn Staley, the Gamecocks have established themselves as a dominant force in women’s basketball. They enter the tournament as the defending national champions, aiming to repeat their success. The team boasts a strong lineup, with freshman forward Joyce Edwards leading in scoring at 13.2 points per game. However, Edwards has faced challenges in recent games, including a five-point performance against Indiana and six points in the win over Maryland. The Gamecocks’ defense is formidable, ranking 32nd nationally by allowing an average of 57.3 points per game. Their offense is potent, averaging 80.8 points per game, placing them 12th in the nation.
Duke Blue Devils:
Coach Kara Lawson has revitalized the Blue Devils, guiding them to their first Elite Eight appearance since 2013. The team has demonstrated resilience, overcoming early-season challenges to secure quality wins, including a notable victory over North Carolina in the Sweet 16. Duke’s defense is slightly more restrictive than South Carolina’s, ranking 29th by conceding 57.1 points per game. Offensively, they average 73.8 points per game. Key players include freshman guard Toby Fournier, who leads the team with 13.4 points per game, and junior guard Ashlon Jackson, contributing 12.5 points per game. Sophomore guard Oluchi Okananwa has emerged as a significant offensive force, leading the team in scoring during the ACC Tournament and the NCAA Tournament’s first round.
Game Analysis:
Both teams exhibit strong defensive capabilities, making it likely that offensive efficiency will be crucial. South Carolina’s experience, with multiple national championships under their belt, provides them with a competitive edge in high-pressure situations. However, Duke’s recent form, including a streak of dominance since late February, suggests they are peaking at the right time. The return of key players like Fournier adds depth to Duke’s lineup, enhancing their scoring potential. The Blue Devils’ bench strength and defensive tenacity could play a pivotal role in disrupting South Carolina’s offensive flow.
Prediction:
Considering South Carolina’s championship pedigree and consistent performance throughout the season, they are favored to win this matchup. A projected score is South Carolina 74, Duke
Viewing Information:
The game is scheduled for Sunday at 1 p.m. ET (10 a.m. PT) and will be broadcast on ABC. Tickets for the Elite Eight game at Legacy Arena in Birmingham are available through StubHub, with prices ranging from $11 to $152, depending on seat location…