The Duke women’s basketball team explains what transpired during the game’s last shot against South Carolina.

When the Duke women’s basketball team squared off against South Carolina, it was a matchup that had everyone on the edge of their seats. The game between these two powerhouse programs was expected to be intense, and it did not disappoint. However, the most memorable moment of the game occurred in the final moments, when Duke had one last opportunity to win the game with a shot at the buzzer. The outcome of that last shot, and the events leading up to it, would go on to define the game for both teams.

For Duke, a team that has been a contender in women’s college basketball for years, this game represented a significant moment in their season. Their performance against South Carolina, the defending national champions, would either serve as a statement of their potential or highlight areas where they still needed to grow. As time wound down and the game came down to the wire, all eyes were on Duke’s ability to execute under pressure.

South Carolina, on the other hand, entered the game as one of the most dominant teams in college basketball. Led by head coach Dawn Staley and the formidable presence of star players like Aliyah Boston, the Gamecocks were a team that expected nothing less than victory. South Carolina’s track record of success meant that they were used to close games and could perform under pressure. However, the final possession of the game would end up being the defining moment, and it all came down to the last shot.

This article will delve into the events leading up to that last shot, breaking down the strategies, decisions, and emotions that fueled Duke’s attempt to secure an improbable victory over South Carolina. We will explore what transpired on the court, including the critical decisions made by Duke’s coaching staff and players, as well as the factors that made this game so intense. Furthermore, the article will also analyze the aftermath of the game and the significance of this moment for both teams.

Setting the Stage: The Game’s Context

Before delving into the specifics of the final play, it’s important to understand the context in which this game took place. Both teams were playing for more than just a win; they were competing for pride, reputation, and the chance to prove themselves as one of the best in the nation. South Carolina, under head coach Dawn Staley, had established itself as a dominant force in women’s college basketball, particularly after winning the national championship in 2022. Their record was impeccable, and they had a roster loaded with elite talent, including Aliyah Boston, who was one of the top players in the country.

On the other hand, Duke, led by head coach Kara Lawson, had been a rising force in the ACC and had the potential to challenge the top programs. Their team was built on a foundation of strong defense, balanced scoring, and the leadership of players like Celeste Taylor and Elizabeth Balogun. Duke had the capability to compete with any team in the nation, but they needed a statement win to show they were ready to contend for a national title.

In this environment, the game was a high-stakes battle. It was not just a regular-season matchup; it was a chance for both teams to assert themselves and build momentum for the rest of the season. As the game progressed and the clock wound down, it was clear that the outcome would be determined in the final moments.

The Game’s Final Moments: What Went Down

As the game approached its climax, both teams had fought tooth and nail to get to this point. With under 30 seconds remaining, South Carolina held a narrow lead. Duke had done well to keep the game close despite being on the road in a hostile environment. With the Gamecocks’ defense putting intense pressure on Duke’s offense, it was clear that the Blue Devils would need something special to overcome the deficit.

In the final seconds, Duke had possession of the ball, and it became clear that they were going to have one last chance to either tie the game or win it with a three-point shot. With a timeout called, Coach Lawson and her staff drew up a play designed to give Duke the best possible look at the basket. The team had a few options for who could take the shot, but it was clear that the ball would be in the hands of one of their key players.

With the crowd roaring and the pressure mounting, Duke’s final possession began. The ball was passed to Celeste Taylor, who had been one of Duke’s most consistent performers throughout the game. Taylor had the ball at the top of the key, looking for a chance to drive, pass, or take the shot. The clock continued to tick down, and it was clear that this would be Duke’s final chance.

The defense from South Carolina was intense, with the Gamecocks’ defenders staying tight on Taylor and denying her any easy looks. With just a few seconds left on the clock, Taylor made a move to her right, attempting to shake off her defender and get a clean shot off. However, as she attempted to elevate for the shot, she was met by South Carolina’s defense, particularly by the towering presence of Aliyah Boston, who had been an imposing force in the paint all game long.

At this point, Taylor was forced to pass the ball out to Elizabeth Balogun, who had positioned herself beyond the arc, ready for a potential game-winning shot. Balogun caught the ball with a second remaining and took the shot under intense pressure. The arena held its breath as the ball soared toward the basket.

In the split second before the ball could reach the hoop, the crowd was silent, the moment suspended in time. The ball hit the rim and bounced out, sending the crowd into a frenzy as the final buzzer sounded. South Carolina had held on for the win, but Duke’s effort, especially in those final moments, had been nothing short of impressive.

The Emotional Impact: Duke’s Reflections on the Last Shot

After the game, the Duke women’s basketball team gathered to reflect on what transpired, particularly during the final moments of the game. The players and coaching staff expressed a mixture of frustration, pride, and determination. Despite coming up short, the Blue Devils were proud of their performance and how they had competed against one of the best teams in the country.

Celeste Taylor, who had been at the center of the final possession, was candid about the emotions she was feeling. “I wanted to make the shot,” Taylor said. “But I knew that we had to trust each other and that if I didn’t have a clean look, I needed to make the right decision. Elizabeth [Balogun] had a good look, and I trusted her to take the shot. It just didn’t fall for us today, but we know we’ll be back stronger.”

For Balogun, the experience of taking the last shot was both humbling and motivating. “It was a tough shot, and I was just focused on getting it off before the buzzer. It didn’t go in, and that’s the reality of the game. But I’m proud of how we competed. We played with heart, and that’s something we can build on,” she said. “We have the tools to beat anyone. It’s just about taking these lessons and growing from them.”

Coach Kara Lawson echoed the sentiments of her players, acknowledging that the loss stung but also emphasizing the growth she saw in her team. “South Carolina is an incredible team, and they showed why they’re one of the top teams in the country. But we didn’t back down. We fought until the very end, and that’s what I’m most proud of,” Lawson said. “We’ll learn from this and get better. We’re not satisfied with moral victories, but we know that this game shows we’re capable of competing with the best.”

The Blue Devils also acknowledged the presence of South Carolina’s defense, which had been key in disrupting their final possession. Aliyah Boston, a dominant player in the post, was a particular concern for Duke throughout the game. Her ability to alter shots and create a presence in the paint made it difficult for Duke to execute in the closing moments. Still, Duke’s players were resolute in their belief that they could overcome this challenge moving forward.

The Aftermath: South Carolina’s Reaction

South Carolina, while relieved to come out on top, also recognized the challenge that Duke had posed throughout the game. Head coach Dawn Staley, who has led the Gamecocks to multiple national titles, expressed admiration for Duke’s resilience.

“They played a great game,” Staley said. “Duke is a well-coached team, and they made us earn this win. I’m proud of how we closed out the game, but I know we were fortunate to come away with the win. You can never underestimate a team like Duke, especially when they’ve got players who can execute in the clutch.”

Aliyah Boston, who was instrumental in South Carolina’s defense and overall success, also shared her thoughts on the closing moments. “It wasn’t easy,” she said. “Duke is a tough team, and they made a great push. But I’m proud of how we finished. We knew we had to get stops, and I was focused on doing my part to protect the rim.”

Looking Forward: What’s Next for Both Teams?

While the game ended in heartbreak for Duke, the Blue Devils have much to look forward to in the remainder of the season. The loss to South Carolina, while painful, proved that Duke is capable of competing at the highest level, and they have the talent and leadership to continue challenging the top teams in the country. With players like Taylor, Balogun, and others, Duke has a bright future ahead.

For South Carolina, the victory solidified their position as one of the top teams in the nation. However, they know that the road to another championship will be filled with challenges, and games like this against Duke are reminders of how difficult it can be to stay at the top.

In the end, the final shot in this thrilling game will be remembered as one of the defining moments of the season. While it didn’t go in for Duke, the determination, teamwork, and resilience they displayed throughout the game will be remembered as a testament to the team’s growth and potential.