Final score of the UConn-South Carolina women’s basketball game: Highlights of the Huskies’ victory

In one of the most highly anticipated matchups of the 2024-2025 women’s college basketball season, the University of Connecticut Huskies secured a thrilling victory over the South Carolina Gamecocks, delivering a performance that showcased both grit and brilliance. The final score of the game—UConn 78, South Carolina 71—was the result of a hard-fought, emotionally charged contest that highlighted the Huskies’ resilience and championship pedigree.

This game wasn’t just another regular-season matchup; it was a clash between two of the sport’s elite programs, both of whom have a tradition of dominance and high expectations. South Carolina, led by their legendary coach Dawn Staley, came into the game as the defending NCAA champions and one of the favorites to repeat, boasting a team full of athleticism, depth, and skill. On the other side, the UConn Huskies, coached by Geno Auriemma, are perennial title contenders and have consistently been at the top of women’s college basketball.

The intensity and high stakes of the game were felt from the very first whistle. Both teams came out with a clear sense of urgency, knowing that a victory here would not only boost their national title hopes but also send a message to the rest of the country. In the end, it was UConn’s balance, execution down the stretch, and star power that propelled them to a 78-71 victory, one that will be remembered as a statement win for the Huskies.

First Half: A Battle of Titans

From the opening tip, it was clear that both UConn and South Carolina were prepared to bring their best to the court. The intensity of the game was evident as both teams traded baskets early on. South Carolina, known for their suffocating defense and physical play, immediately showed their prowess on that end of the floor. They were aggressive on ball screens, pushing the tempo and forcing UConn to adjust their offensive game plan.

However, UConn responded with a sense of poise and precision, a trademark of Coach Auriemma’s teams. Their offense was fluid, moving the ball quickly around the perimeter and finding open looks. The Huskies leaned heavily on their two All-American candidates: Aaliyah Edwards and Caroline Ducharme. Edwards, the versatile forward, used her strength and footwork to score efficiently in the paint, while Ducharme, a sharpshooter from beyond the arc, hit several early three-pointers to keep the Gamecocks’ defense on its heels.

Despite UConn’s offensive execution, South Carolina remained a tough matchup. Led by their dynamic star Aliyah Boston, the Gamecocks had no shortage of scoring threats. Boston was a constant presence in the paint, scoring with ease and controlling the boards. However, UConn’s defense, led by their outstanding guard Azzi Fudd, was able to limit some of Boston’s impact by making her work for every basket and cutting off passing lanes to her teammates.

The first half ended with both teams showing flashes of brilliance but also dealing with moments of adversity. UConn entered the locker room with a slim 37-35 lead, with both teams playing tightly contested basketball. At the half, it was evident that this game was not going to be decided by any one player or moment. Instead, it would be a test of execution, mental toughness, and depth.

Second Half: UConn’s Clutch Performance

As the second half began, both teams came out looking to establish control. South Carolina started the half with a strong defensive stance, trying to assert dominance by slowing down UConn’s fast-paced offense. For much of the early portion of the second half, the Gamecocks were able to keep the game close, with their length and athleticism bothering the Huskies’ shooters.

But UConn showed why they are one of the most feared teams in the country when it matters most. Their star players took over in key moments, and their collective willpower became evident as the game wore on. Midway through the second half, it was Aaliyah Edwards who seized the moment. The junior forward, who had already been effective in the first half, began to dominate in the paint, scoring back-to-back baskets and drawing fouls. South Carolina had no answer for Edwards, who used her physicality and footwork to punish the Gamecocks’ defense.

Alongside Edwards, Caroline Ducharme continued to shine. The junior guard, who has been UConn’s most reliable perimeter shooter all season, hit a crucial three-pointer from the top of the key that pushed UConn’s lead to 53-47. Ducharme’s ability to space the floor and shoot with confidence made it difficult for South Carolina to recover, as it stretched their defense and allowed more room for Edwards and others to operate inside.

One of the defining moments of the game came with just under five minutes left in regulation. South Carolina, still fighting to close the gap, pulled within two points after a quick 6-0 run, capped by a layup from Brea Beal. But UConn, rather than panicking, responded with a series of clutch plays. First, Azzi Fudd, who had been relatively quiet throughout much of the game, hit a mid-range jumper with the shot clock winding down to push the lead back to four. Then, on the next possession, Edwards drew a foul on a post move, hitting two crucial free throws to extend the lead to 72-66 with under three minutes remaining.

The Gamecocks tried to mount one final push, with Laeticia Amihere and Zia Cooke making strong plays to keep South Carolina within striking distance. Cooke, known for her big-game performances, nailed a contested three-pointer to pull South Carolina within five, but UConn’s defense held firm in the final minutes. The Huskies effectively managed the clock and made free throws when needed, including a pair of crucial shots from Nika Mühl to ice the game.

In the final moments, with South Carolina unable to find any more openings, UConn sealed the 78-71 victory, sending the crowd into a frenzy. The win was a statement not just to the rest of the college basketball world but to themselves: the Huskies were back and ready to compete for another national title.

Key Players and Performances

While the team as a whole contributed to the win, there were several standout individual performances that made the difference in this game.

Aaliyah Edwards: The Dominant Force in the Paint

Aaliyah Edwards played a starring role in UConn’s victory, finishing with a game-high 24 points and 10 rebounds. Edwards was a force inside, using her size, strength, and basketball IQ to dominate the paint and create second-chance opportunities for the Huskies. She also showed tremendous composure at the free-throw line, hitting key foul shots in the final minutes to secure the win.

Her ability to take over in crucial stretches of the game made her the clear MVP of the matchup. She not only provided scoring in the low post but also made it difficult for South Carolina to score in the paint. Edwards’ performance exemplified why she is considered one of the best forwards in the country.

Caroline Ducharme: The Sharpshooter Who Came Through

Caroline Ducharme’s performance was another key to UConn’s success. She finished with 19 points, including several key three-pointers that helped UConn maintain their lead in the second half. Ducharme’s shooting, particularly from beyond the arc, stretched South Carolina’s defense and opened up opportunities for her teammates. Her ability to step up in clutch moments made her an invaluable asset to the Huskies.

Azzi Fudd: The Quiet Closer

Though Azzi Fudd didn’t have the flashy performance that some may have expected, her timely mid-range jumper in the final minutes was pivotal in keeping South Carolina at bay. Fudd, known for her ability to score in bunches, was effective when the Huskies needed her most, hitting big shots and maintaining offensive flow. She finished with 14 points and contributed several key assists, showcasing her well-rounded game.

South Carolina’s Fight: Aliyah Boston and Zia Cooke

Despite the loss, South Carolina showed why they are one of the best teams in the country. Aliyah Boston, the reigning National Player of the Year, was dominant inside, finishing with 20 points and 12 rebounds. Boston’s leadership and presence in the paint were crucial for South Carolina, and she did everything she could to keep her team in the game.

Zia Cooke was also effective for the Gamecocks, finishing with 18 points and several key three-pointers to keep the Gamecocks within striking distance. While the Gamecocks fell short in this game, their resilience and talent will ensure that they remain a formidable force moving forward.

The Road Ahead: What This Victory Means for UConn

For UConn, this victory over South Carolina was much more than just a regular-season win. It was a statement that they are a legitimate contender for the NCAA title this year. With their balanced offensive attack, stifling defense, and clutch performances in critical moments, UConn is poised to make another deep run in March Madness.

This victory also sends a message to the rest of the country that UConn’s dominance in women’s college basketball is far from over. With their elite players, experienced coaching staff, and the confidence gained from knocking off a top team like South Carolina, the Huskies are firmly in the conversation for a national championship.

In the bigger picture, UConn’s win also solidifies their position as a team that can compete with anyone, regardless of ranking or pedigree. With the postseason looming, UConn has proven

that they are ready to take on the best and add another title to their storied history.