In a stunning upset that sent shockwaves through the women’s college basketball world, the #5 UCLA Bruins defeated the top-ranked South Carolina Gamecocks 78-57 at Pauley Pavilion on Sunday. The loss snapped South Carolina’s 43-game winning streak, which dated back to March 2023, and marked their largest margin of defeat since falling to Baylor in the 2019 Sweet 16.
Bruins Dominate on Both Ends of the Court
From the opening tip, UCLA looked like the superior team, controlling the pace of the game and stifling South Carolina’s usually potent offense. The Bruins held a commanding 42-21 lead at halftime, thanks in large part to their suffocating defense and efficient shooting.
UCLA won the rebounding battle 41-34 and held South Carolina’s starting forwards to a combined 3-of-11 shooting for just 6 points. Bruins center Lauren Betts anchored the interior defense with 4 blocks and numerous altered shots.
Balanced Scoring Attack Fuels UCLA
Offensively, the Bruins showcased their depth and versatility, with five players scoring in double figures. Guard Londynn Jones led the way with 15 points, including a perfect 5-of-5 from beyond the arc. UCLA’s ball movement and shot selection were superb throughout the game, leading to high-percentage looks and timely baskets.
No one should be “sleeping” on UCLA. We showed poise, depth, chemistry, experience and toughness today. It’s early, but this was a statement win against the standard-bearers of our sport.
– UCLA head coach Cori Close
Gamecocks Struggle to Find Offensive Rhythm
For South Carolina, the loss exposed some of the uncertainties they face without the interior presence of departed star Kamilla Cardoso. The Gamecocks struggled to generate consistent offense, with only one starter, guard Te-Hina Paopao, meeting expectations with 18 points on 4-of-4 shooting from deep.
Sophomore reserve Tessa Johnson provided a spark with 14 points off the bench, but it wasn’t enough to overcome UCLA’s dominant performance. South Carolina will need to find more reliable scoring options and shore up their interior defense as they navigate the post-Cardoso era.
Implications for the 2024-25 Season
While it’s still early, UCLA’s resounding victory over South Carolina could have significant implications for the 2024-25 women’s college basketball landscape. The Bruins, along with crosstown rival USC, have been widely projected as potential Final Four teams, and this win only reinforces those expectations.
As for South Carolina, the loss serves as a wake-up call and a reminder that their path to a repeat championship may be more challenging than anticipated. Head coach Dawn Staley will undoubtedly use this as a teachable moment and motivation for her talented squad.
With UCLA’s upset of South Carolina and Notre Dame’s victory over USC earlier in the weekend, the top of the rankings is primed for a shakeup. The Bruins have a strong case to ascend to the #1 spot, with UConn, Notre Dame, and Texas also in the mix. One thing is certain: the 2024-25 season is shaping up to be an exciting and unpredictable ride.
