The Gamecocks’ 71-game home winning streak comes to an end as Paige Bueckers and UConn upset South Carolina.

In a dramatic turn of events, the South Carolina Gamecocks’ historic 71-game home winning streak came to a stunning end on a night that will be remembered as one of the most defining moments in women’s college basketball history. The No. 7 UConn Huskies delivered a statement victory on the road, upsetting the defending national champions, No. 4 South Carolina, with an 87-58 blowout that showcased both their offensive firepower and defensive tenacity.

The win, which ended South Carolina’s dominance at Colonial Life Arena, was largely fueled by the standout performance of Paige Bueckers, the former national player of the year who has made her long-awaited return from injury. Bueckers, who has been a game-changer for UConn since stepping back into the lineup, orchestrated a masterful performance, leading the Huskies to a commanding victory over the Gamecocks and delivering a statement that UConn is back to their championship form.

For South Carolina, the loss was a harsh reminder of the vulnerability that even the most dominant teams face on any given night. Despite their overwhelming talent, the Gamecocks were overwhelmed by a UConn squad that clicked on all cylinders, playing with precision and intensity from the opening tip.

This article will break down the key moments of the game, focusing on the significant contributions from both teams, the reasons behind South Carolina’s defeat, and what this loss means for the Gamecocks going forward in a season that is far from over.

Final Score: UConn 87, South Carolina 58

While UConn’s win was a massive upset, it wasn’t just about the final score—it was about the manner in which they dismantled South Carolina. The Huskies did not simply win; they executed a near-perfect game plan that left the Gamecocks scrambling for answers from start to finish.

UConn’s Unstoppable Offense: Paige Bueckers Leads the Charge

There was no question that the biggest storyline of this game was the performance of Paige Bueckers. Returning from a year-long absence due to injury, Bueckers showed that she was back to her elite level, leading the charge for UConn with a 21-point, 7-assist performance. Her shooting was impeccable, hitting 7-of-11 from the field, including 4-of-6 from three-point range, showing both her scoring versatility and her ability to control the tempo of the game.

Bueckers’ impact was felt in every aspect of the game. She facilitated UConn’s offense with exceptional vision, making pinpoint passes that led to easy baskets. Her ability to find open teammates, particularly Azzi Fudd, who added 15 points, opened up opportunities for others as well, leaving South Carolina’s defense scrambling to keep up.

Bueckers’ leadership wasn’t limited to her scoring. She was constantly communicating on the floor, orchestrating the offense, and making crucial defensive plays. Her defensive intensity was also evident as she helped UConn stifle South Carolina’s perimeter game, contesting shots and forcing turnovers that led to fast-break opportunities.

While Aaliyah Edwards and Caroline Ducharme each added valuable contributions, it was Bueckers’ command of the game that made the difference. She looked like the Bueckers of old—the player who could take over a game and control every possession. Her return to form has massive implications for UConn as they look to build toward March Madness and contend for a national title.

Balanced Scoring: UConn’s Offensive Efficiency

UConn’s offensive scheme was one of the most efficient performances seen in college basketball this season. The Huskies shot an impressive 58% from the field and 41% from beyond the arc, showing remarkable precision both inside and outside.

Aaliyah Edwards played a dominant role inside, finishing with 16 points and 9 rebounds. She exploited mismatches in the post and worked well with Bueckers, either finishing plays or creating space for teammates. Her physicality inside was a key factor in UConn establishing control early in the game.

Caroline Ducharme, one of the key reserves for UConn, also had a strong outing, contributing 12 points and hitting crucial shots during pivotal moments in the game. Her ability to score off the bench helped keep South Carolina from mounting any serious comeback, maintaining UConn’s momentum throughout the contest.

South Carolina’s defensive game plan, which had been a cornerstone of their 71-game home winning streak, was left in shambles as the Huskies found open shots from all over the floor. UConn’s ball movement and spacing on offense created confusion for the Gamecocks, who had difficulty adjusting to the speed and variety of UConn’s attack.

South Carolina’s Struggles: Offensive Inconsistencies and Defensive Breakdown

The loss was an uncharacteristic one for Dawn Staley’s South Carolina squad. The Gamecocks entered the game with a reputation as one of the most dominant and well-rounded teams in women’s college basketball, and their home court was considered nearly impenetrable. However, UConn’s intensity and ability to execute left South Carolina reeling.

Offensive Woes: Lack of Rhythm

South Carolina’s offense, which had been one of the most prolific in the country, struggled to find any rhythm against UConn’s aggressive defense. The Gamecocks shot just 37% from the field, including a dismal 2-of-18 from three-point range. The inability to hit perimeter shots allowed UConn to clog the paint, effectively neutralizing South Carolina’s biggest weapon, A’ja Wilson, who had been nearly unstoppable all season.

Breein Tyree and Zia Cooke, two of the Gamecocks’ leading scorers, both had subpar performances. Tyree finished with just 9 points on 4-of-12 shooting, while Cooke was limited to 8 points on 3-of-11 shooting. UConn’s defense, particularly the pressure applied by Bueckers and Fudd, forced both players into tough shots and difficult decision-making.

The Gamecocks’ inability to hit from outside also prevented them from opening up the floor. UConn’s defense was able to sag off South Carolina’s perimeter players, packing the paint and forcing turnovers. The Gamecocks’ offense, which thrives on movement and spacing, was stifled, leaving them with few easy opportunities.

Defensive Breakdown: UConn Exploits Every Weakness

South Carolina’s defense, often touted as one of the best in the country, was similarly exposed in this game. The Gamecocks, who have typically been excellent at disrupting passing lanes, defending without fouling, and guarding the rim, were unable to execute their defensive game plan against UConn’s precision.

The Huskies’ ability to stretch the floor with their sharp shooting, combined with their disciplined ball movement, exposed South Carolina’s defensive lapses. UConn’s quick ball rotation and constant off-ball movement left South Carolina chasing shadows. In particular, Azzi Fudd’s ability to hit shots from deep forced South Carolina to stretch their defense further than they were comfortable with, allowing UConn to drive the ball and find open shooters.

Furthermore, UConn’s size and strength in the post—particularly from Edwards—created additional problems for the Gamecocks, who struggled to defend the paint. South Carolina’s post players, including Kamilla Cardoso and Victoria Saxton, were dominated on both ends of the floor, unable to contain Edwards’ physicality or finish opportunities when they were created.

Key Moments in the Game: Turning the Tide for UConn

1. UConn’s Early Surge: Taking Control from the Start From the opening tip, UConn asserted its dominance. A 9-0 run midway through the first quarter put the Huskies up by double digits, and South Carolina was never able to fully recover. The Huskies’ perimeter shooting and fast pace left the Gamecocks scrambling for answers.
2. End of the First Half: UConn Builds an Insurmountable Lead By halftime, UConn had built a commanding 45-27 lead. Their offensive efficiency was on full display, as they shot 60% from the field in the first half and out-rebounded South Carolina 22-14. Bueckers and Fudd had combined for 30 points, and UConn looked completely in control of the game.
3. South Carolina’s Failed Comeback: UConn’s Defense Holds Strong The second half saw South Carolina attempt a few runs to cut into UConn’s lead, but the Huskies responded each time with clutch plays. A pivotal moment came midway through the third quarter when Paige Bueckers hit back-to-back three-pointers to extend UConn’s lead to 20 points, deflating any hope South Carolina had of a rally.
4. Final Minutes: UConn Puts the Game to Bed By the fourth quarter, the game was well out of reach. UConn’s defense held strong, and their offense never slowed down. The Huskies ended the game with a 29-point victory, a scoreline that was both a shock and a testament to their superiority on this night.

What This Loss Means for South Carolina Moving Forward

While the defeat is a painful one for South Carolina, it does not define their season. The Gamecocks are still one of the most talented teams in the country, and a loss to a

team like UConn is not an indication of a systemic issue. Instead, it’s a reminder of how even the best teams can have off nights, especially when facing an opponent with the caliber and pedigree of UConn.

For Dawn Staley and her players, this loss should serve as a valuable lesson. They will need to refocus on their defense and offensive execution, particularly when facing elite teams in the postseason. The road to a national title is still wide open for South Carolina, but they will need to use this loss as motivation to tighten up their game and prepare for the challenges ahead.

UConn’s Statement: A Return to Elite Form

For UConn, this victory was more than just an upset—it was a declaration that they are back to being the powerhouse program they’ve always been. With Paige Bueckers back in the fold and leading the charge, the Huskies have positioned themselves as a serious contender for the national title. This win should give UConn an enormous confidence boost as they continue their quest for another championship.

In a season that has been full of surprises and shifting dynamics, this win serves as a reminder that in women’s college basketball, anything can happen. And on this night, it was UConn who came out on top in one of the most significant victories in recent memory.