South Carolina Women’s Basketball Sets Program Record with 43rd Consecutive Win Over Clemson
CLEMSON, S.C. (AP) — The No. 1 ranked South Carolina Gamecocks continued their dominant run, achieving a program milestone with a 77-45 victory over their arch-rival Clemson on Wednesday night. This win marked their 43rd straight, surpassing their previous record of 42 wins that began in the 2022 NCAA Tournament, culminating in a national championship and extending until the 2023 Final Four.
Despite a sluggish start, where South Carolina trailed 17-12 midway through the second quarter, the Gamecocks showcased their resilience with a powerful 17-0 scoring run, effectively taking control of the game. Te-Hina Paopao led the team with 13 points, while Ashlyn Watkins contributed a double-double with 10 points and 11 rebounds.
Clemson’s Loyal McQueen put up 15 points but struggled to maintain momentum against South Carolina’s stifling defense, which forced a season-high 19 turnovers and dominated the boards, out-rebounding the Tigers 54-30. The Gamecocks effectively utilized their depth, with 11 out of 12 players scoring at least three points, while their bench outscored Clemson’s 43-3.
Key moments included a crucial 3-pointer at the buzzer from Tessa Johnson that put South Carolina ahead by 12 at halftime. Freshman Joyce Edwards added eight points, contributing crucial layups during the third quarter, while Maddy McDaniel celebrated a personal milestone with her first career three-pointer.
As South Carolina improves to 5-0 this season, head coach Dawn Staley’s squad solidifies its reputation as a powerhouse in women’s basketball, showing both tenacity and tactical prowess in this latest chapter of their illustrious journey.
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