South Carolina’s Dawn Staley discovers the NCAA route. These are the teams that will be visiting Columbia.

As the 2025 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament nears, the South Carolina Gamecocks, under head coach Dawn Staley, have once again proven to be a force to be reckoned with in women’s college basketball. After dominating the SEC and finishing the regular season at the top of the rankings, South Carolina enters the NCAA Tournament with a formidable roster and high expectations.

Dawn Staley, a two-time national champion and one of the most respected coaches in the game, has solidified South Carolina as a perennial powerhouse in women’s basketball. With a blend of experienced veterans, talented underclassmen, and a rigorous recruiting class, the Gamecocks are primed for another deep run in March Madness. Columbia, South Carolina, has become a basketball destination, and this year’s tournament promises to bring some of the best teams in the country to the city.

As the NCAA Tournament bracket takes shape, South Carolina will host several top-tier teams in their region, and each will bring unique challenges to the court. Here’s a breakdown of the teams that will be making the trip to Columbia, as well as what fans can expect when these squads hit the hardwood against the Gamecocks.

1. Connecticut Huskies: The Familiar Powerhouse

The University of Connecticut, under legendary coach Geno Auriemma, is always a name that looms large in NCAA Women’s Basketball. The Huskies are a mainstay in March Madness, with a record number of championships and an unyielding legacy of excellence. Although the 2025 season has seen some struggles compared to their typical dominance, Connecticut’s squad remains incredibly talented and dangerous.

The Huskies enter the tournament with a mix of experienced seniors and budding young stars. Their top players, including Aaliyah Edwards and Nika Muhl, bring a well-rounded style of play that mixes offensive firepower with tough defense. Edwards, a dominant forward, has been an integral part of UConn’s success, both offensively and defensively. Muhl, one of the top point guards in the country, controls the tempo and sets up her teammates with exceptional precision.

Facing Connecticut will be a major test for the Gamecocks, who have met the Huskies in several key matchups over the years. Both teams play a physical, intense style of basketball, and a potential game between these two national powers would have all the makings of a classic. UConn is known for its high-pressure defense and a potent fast-break offense, and if South Carolina meets them on their home court, it would be one of the most anticipated games of the tournament.

2. Stanford Cardinal: The Defending National Champions

Stanford, led by head coach Tara VanDerveer, is another top contender in the NCAA Tournament, and as the defending national champions, they enter the 2025 tournament with their eyes on a repeat. The Cardinal, who defeated Arizona in the 2024 championship game, have maintained their high level of play throughout the regular season.

Stanford’s Cameron Brink, one of the most dynamic players in college basketball, is a force to be reckoned with. Brink’s combination of length, agility, and skill allows her to dominate on both ends of the floor. Alongside her, guard Hannah Jump and forward Ashten Prechtel provide offensive depth and versatility. Stanford’s ability to space the floor with multiple shooters while playing tough defense will be a major test for South Carolina’s defense.

If Stanford travels to Columbia for a potential regional final or semifinal, it would be another marquee matchup. The Gamecocks have faced the Cardinal in the NCAA Tournament in recent years, and the intensity of those matchups has only heightened the rivalry. Both teams have similar styles, preferring to dominate in the paint while also utilizing the three-point shot. With their experience and the returning core of championship-caliber players, Stanford will be a team to watch closely in this year’s tournament.

3. Louisiana State University (LSU) Tigers: SEC Rivals with Plenty of Talent

LSU, another SEC powerhouse, is a formidable opponent in the NCAA Tournament, and they will be looking to make a deep run in 2025. Under head coach Kim Mulkey, the Tigers have rebounded from some tough seasons to build a competitive program that is capable of going toe-to-toe with the best teams in the country.

LSU’s Angel Reese, one of the best forwards in women’s college basketball, is a major threat. Reese has the ability to dominate both offensively and defensively, making her a key player to watch. The Tigers also feature Flau’jae Johnson, another dynamic guard who brings explosive scoring ability and athleticism to the floor.

The Gamecocks and LSU have developed a fierce rivalry in the SEC, and when these two teams face off, sparks often fly. The matchup between South Carolina’s aggressive defense and LSU’s physical offense is always a thrilling spectacle. Given the strength of both teams in the SEC, the stakes are higher than ever, and a potential showdown in the NCAA Tournament could have massive implications for both teams’ title hopes.

4. Iowa State Cyclones: A High-Octane Offense

The Iowa State Cyclones, led by head coach Bill Fennelly, are an intriguing team in the 2025 NCAA Tournament. Known for their high-scoring, up-tempo style of play, the Cyclones pose a different type of challenge for South Carolina’s defense. Iowa State relies heavily on the three-point shot and a fast-paced offense that keeps opponents on their heels.

Ashley Joens, one of the most talented wings in the country, is the star of the Iowa State offense. Joens has the ability to stretch defenses with her outside shooting while also attacking the rim with authority. She is supported by a solid supporting cast, including Jordyne McCray and Lexi Donarski, who add scoring and depth to an already potent offense.

For South Carolina, the key to beating Iowa State will be limiting their three-point shooting and slowing down their high-paced attack. With a dominant inside presence like Aliyah Boston and strong perimeter defenders, the Gamecocks have the tools to contain Iowa State’s offense. However, Iowa State’s ability to score in bunches means South Carolina will need to be sharp on both ends of the floor.

5. Maryland Terrapins: A Versatile Team with Depth

The Maryland Terrapins, coached by Brenda Frese, are a consistently strong team in the NCAA Tournament, and they will once again be a tough opponent for any team in 2025. The Terrapins bring a well-rounded game, with a balanced attack that emphasizes both scoring and defense.

Maryland’s Diamond Miller, a star guard, has the ability to break down defenses with her scoring, while Brinae Alexander and Shyanne Sellers provide additional firepower. Maryland’s depth across all positions and its ability to play fast-paced basketball make them a dangerous team in March.

The Terrapins will bring an exciting brand of basketball to Columbia, and a potential clash between them and South Carolina would be a great test of the Gamecocks’ defense. Maryland’s up-tempo offense could pose challenges for South Carolina’s traditionally stout defense, but with players like Boston and Bree Hall, the Gamecocks have the necessary tools to counter Maryland’s dynamic attack.

6. Indiana Hoosiers: A Team on the Rise

Indiana, led by head coach Teri Moren, has emerged as one of the top programs in the NCAA Tournament in recent years. The Hoosiers are no longer under the radar; they’re firmly in the conversation as one of the nation’s elite teams, and they will be a major challenge for any team they face.

Mackenzie Holmes, one of the best post players in the country, leads the Hoosiers. Holmes is an exceptional scorer and rebounder, and her ability to anchor Indiana’s offense in the paint will be a critical factor in their tournament run. Guards Grace Berger and Sara Scalia add shooting and perimeter scoring, giving the Hoosiers an all-around attack.

A potential game between Indiana and South Carolina would be a fascinating matchup between two of the best teams in the country. Both teams play fundamentally sound basketball and rely on stifling defense. The game could come down to which team can execute better in clutch moments, and with their championship pedigree, South Carolina is a tough out.

A Star-Studded Journey in Columbia

As the 2025 NCAA Tournament unfolds, Columbia will host several of the best teams in the country, all vying for the ultimate prize. South Carolina, led by Dawn Staley and a roster full of talented players, will be at the center of the action. With teams like Connecticut, Stanford, LSU, Iowa State, Maryland, and Indiana all coming to town, the stakes are higher than ever for the Gamecocks.

Each of these teams brings unique strengths to the table, and South Carolina will need to be at its best to come out on top. For the Gamecocks, the road to a potential national championship runs through their home court, where their fans will be behind them every step of the way. Dawn Staley’s leadership, combined with the talent of players like Aliyah Boston, will be critical in navigating the challenges these powerhouse teams present.

As the tournament approaches, the excitement surrounding South Carolina’s journey is palpable. Will the Gamecocks be able to defend their dominance in Columbia and continue their quest for a national title? Only time will tell, but one thing is for certain: it’s going to be an unforgettable ride for South Carolina and their fans.