Invincible. Indisputable. An unusual favor.
The Gamecocks had posted back-to-back undefeated seasons entering the highly anticipated national championship game against Iowa. Led by Dawn Staley, their passion, drive and motivation was evident throughout the year; their dominant roster includes freshman Milaicia Fulville and WNBA draft pick Camila Cardoso to name a few. As for their head coach, his resume speaks for itself. a four-time Naismith Coach of the Year and has led the Gamecocks to two wins so far.
The showdown between Iowa and South Carolina lived up to the hype. In the end, South Carolina proved once again why they are the best of the best. They ended up beating the Hawkeyes, 87-75.
We haven’t stopped to think about how iconic that championship game was. Here we relive the big time blocks, standout performances, Dawn’s epic performance and more.
Pregame: Aaliyah Boston, WNBA ROY and: Broadcaster
Aaliyah Boston, who led the Gamecocks to a national championship back in 2022 and is now a star on the Indiana Fever, has expanded her off-court endeavors into broadcasting. He joined the on-air studio crew for the Final Four and was also a sideline reporter during the national championship game.
Whether he was sharing his experience and knowledge of the game or interviewing his former college coach, Boston was a star throughout the broadcast. Our favorite part? He shared this special moment with Staley just minutes after winning the South Carolina title.
Great energy on the boards
The Gamecocks were straight up dominant in the paint against Iowa. Cardoso grabbed 17 rebounds and forward Chloe Keatts followed close behind with 10 boards.
…from Treeeee.
Fearless freshman Tessa Johnson cooked up all night, hitting shots from deep, making crazy layups in the paint and a 19-point performance off the bench. Te-Hina Paopao and Raven Johnson followed, hitting clutch hits for the Gamecocks.
Art by MiLaysia
She’s only a freshman, but MiLaysia Fulwiley has shown throughout the season and especially in the tournament that she’s a star in the making. Fulvilly appeared on both ends of the floor, from crazy drams to steals and making plays. We can’t wait to see his game only continue to develop.
You can read more about MiLaysia in our latest player spotlight:
The Brilliance of Dawn Staley
THE GOAT. This third championship only continues to reinforce what we’ve always known. he is the greatest. Period:
“…My fresh dishes are in my heart because they wanted it. And I hope we can erase the pain they had last year, not being able to finish here. So I’m very proud of where I work,” Staley told GMA.
Like us previously mentioned on his SLAM coverhe is the author of the evolution of college basketball. His legacy will live on forever.
Featured image via Getty Images.
