The South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball team has advanced to the Elite Eight of the 2025 NCAA Tournament, marking their fifth consecutive appearance at this stage under head coach Dawn Staley. In a tightly contested Sweet 16 matchup, the Gamecocks edged out the Maryland Terrapins with a 71–67 victory. Freshman MiLaysia Fulwiley led the team with 23 points, including a pivotal go-ahead layup in the final minutes. Chloe Kitts contributed a double-double with 15 points and 11 rebounds, while the Gamecocks’ bench outscored Maryland’s reserves 40–14, showcasing the team’s depth .
In the Elite Eight, South Carolina faced the Duke Blue Devils in a defensive battle. The Gamecocks secured a narrow 54–50 win, propelled by a decisive 16–8 fourth quarter. This victory advanced South Carolina to their fifth straight Final Four and the eighth under Coach Staley’s leadership .
The Gamecocks’ journey through the tournament has been marked by resilience and strong performances from both starters and bench players, solidifying their status as a powerhouse in women’s college basketball.