The women’s basketball team of South Carolina has accomplished a remarkable feat by reaching the Final Four for the fourth consecutive year with an impeccable undefeated record of 36-0. Coach Dawn Staley has played a pivotal role in guiding her team through a historic season, demonstrating resilience and emerging triumphant in the face of tough challenges.
Despite their flawless record, the Gamecocks encountered some close calls on their journey. They narrowly averted an upset by Tennessee in the SEC Tournament semifinals, with Kamilla Cardoso’s game-winning 3-pointer ensuring their victory. Additionally, the Sweet 16 witnessed a remarkable comeback by Indiana, which the Gamecocks successfully fended off to maintain their perfect season.
The ability of the Gamecocks to triumph in adversity has been a defining characteristic of their journey to the Final Four. As they prepare to face either Texas or NC State in the upcoming Final Four on April 5 in Cleveland, it is worthwhile to analyse the significant statistics that underscore the magnitude of their remarkable season.
1. South Carolina holds the distinction of being the only Division I college basketball team to maintain an undefeated record this season, marking the first instance in league history that they have entered the SEC Tournament with an unblemished record multiple times.
2. This marks the second consecutive year that South Carolina has advanced to the Final Four with an undefeated status.
3. Kamilla Cardoso’s pivotal 3-pointer in the SEC Tournament semifinals against Tennessee played a crucial role in preserving South Carolina’s unbeaten streak, notably marking the center’s first career 3-pointer.
4. With their triumph over Oregon State, the Gamecocks have secured their fourth consecutive appearance in the Final Four.
6. South Carolina has achieved a program record by scoring 100+ points in six games this season.
8. The Gamecocks have clinched the SEC regular-season title eight times, an outstanding accomplishment that places them among elite programs such as Tennessee.
9. As they strive to maintain their undefeated status, South Carolina aspires to join the ranks of the select few teams in history that have finished as undefeated champions.
19. Throughout the season, five Gamecocks have achieved double-digit scores at least 19 times, highlighting the team’s depth and ability to share offensive contributions.
30. South Carolina boasts an impressive scoring margin of 30.1, surpassing all other college basketball teams.
48. Te-Hina Paopao has excelled with a 47.65% success rate in 3-pointers this season, the highest in women’s college basketball.
50. The Gamecocks recently broke the record for the most consecutive SEC wins, surpassing the previous record set by Tennessee.
99. South Carolina’s dominant performance in the first two rounds of the 2024 NCAA Tournament resulted in a remarkable scoring margin of 99, setting a new program record.
610. As they head into the 2024 Final Four, Coach Dawn Staley boasts a career total of 610 wins, solidifying her position as one of the most successful and respected figures in Division I women’s basketball coaching.
The exceptional achievements of the Gamecocks this season are a testament to their unwavering determination and exceptional talent. As they prepare to compete in the Final Four, the basketball world eagerly anticipates witnessing their continued pursuit of perfection on the court.