Columbia, S.C. – The South Carolina Gamecocks are aiming to continue their dominant run in the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament, facing a challenging matchup against the USC Trojans Monday night at Colonial Life Arena. This second-round contest offers a chance for the No. 1 seeded Gamecocks to advance to the Sweet 16, but the Trojans, despite missing key player Juju Watkins, present a formidable obstacle. Understanding the history between these two programs, the key players to watch, and how to follow the action is crucial for fans eager to support South Carolina’s championship pursuit.
South Carolina cruised through their first-round game, delivering a dominating performance against Southern University. However, the Trojans represent a different kind of test. This game is part of “The Real SC,” a two-year neutral-site series designed to showcase both universities’ basketball programs. The Gamecocks have historically had the upper hand, winning all four previous meetings, including three under head coach Dawn Staley. The first game of this current series took place in Los Angeles in November 2025, resulting in a 69-52 victory for South Carolina.
The Gamecocks’ success in that November matchup was built on a strong second-half shooting performance, connecting on 48.6 percent of their attempts after halftime. Joyce Edwards led all scorers with 17 points, while Raven Johnson, Madina Okot, and Edwards each secured double-digit rebounds, demonstrating the team’s commitment to controlling the boards. Rebounding and defensive intensity will again be critical against a USC team capable of hot shooting, as evidenced by their performance in the first quarter of the initial meeting between the two teams.
Key Players to Watch
All eyes will be on USC freshman Jazzy Davidson, a 6’1” guard averaging 18 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game. Davidson has stepped up in the absence of Juju Watkins, the 2025 top women’s basketball player, and will undoubtedly be a focal point of the Gamecocks’ defensive strategy. Containing Davidson’s scoring and playmaking ability will be paramount to South Carolina’s success. For the Gamecocks, Edwards’ versatility and Johnson’s floor generalship will be essential. Okot’s rebounding prowess will also be vital in limiting second-chance opportunities for the Trojans.
Game Details and How to Watch
The Gamecocks and Trojans will tip off on Monday, March 23, at 8 p.m. ET at Colonial Life Arena in Columbia, South Carolina. Fans can catch all the action live on ESPN. For those following along locally, WIS will provide coverage in their sports block on Monday night and further discussion on “Palmetto Sports Daily” with reporters from sister stations across South Carolina, including Greenville, Myrtle Beach, and Charleston. A recap of the game will also be available as a web story on the WIS website. Viewers can also revisit WIS’s “Chasing a Championship” special, which aired on March 17 at 7:30 p.m., recounting the team’s journey to the NCAA tournament.
Looking Ahead: The Path to the Sweet 16
A victory for the Gamecocks would propel them to the Sweet 16, where they would face the winner of the matchup between No. 5 Michigan State and No. 4 Oklahoma. That regional semifinal game is scheduled to take place in Sacramento, California. The NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament bracket is available on the official NCAA website, providing a comprehensive overview of the tournament’s progression.
The Gamecocks’ preparation for this crucial second-round game has been focused on refining their defensive schemes and capitalizing on offensive opportunities. Coach Staley has emphasized the importance of maintaining composure and executing their game plan effectively, particularly against a USC team that has demonstrated the ability to score quickly. The team’s experience and depth are expected to be key factors in navigating the challenges presented by the Trojans.
South Carolina’s success this season has been built on a foundation of teamwork, resilience, and unwavering determination. As they prepare to face USC, the Gamecocks are confident in their ability to overcome any obstacles and continue their pursuit of a national championship. The support of their fans at Colonial Life Arena will undoubtedly provide a significant boost as they strive to advance to the Sweet 16.
The outcome of this game will not only determine which team moves forward in the tournament but also further solidify the rivalry between these two universities within the “The Real SC” series. Fans can stay updated on the latest news and developments by following the Gamecocks’ official social media channels and visiting the university’s athletic website.
Following Monday’s game, the focus will immediately shift to Sacramento and the potential matchup against either Michigan State or Oklahoma. The Gamecocks will continue to analyze their opponents and refine their strategies as they aim to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament. Stay tuned for further updates and coverage as South Carolina continues its championship journey.
What do you think about the Gamecocks’ chances against USC? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below, and be sure to share this article with fellow Gamecock fans!
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