Women’s SEC tournament championship highlights: South Carolina dominates Texas for 3-peat

The 2025 Women’s SEC Basketball Tournament concluded with an emphatic display of dominance by the South Carolina Gamecocks, as they secured a third consecutive championship by defeating the Texas Longhorns in the final. The Gamecocks’ victory in the SEC Tournament solidifies their status as the undisputed powerhouse in women’s college basketball, continuing their remarkable run of success under the leadership of head coach Dawn Staley. This victory not only sealed their third straight tournament title but also sent a powerful statement ahead of the upcoming NCAA Tournament: South Carolina is primed to defend their national title.

With a commanding 76-54 victory over Texas in the championship game, South Carolina proved once again that they are a force to be reckoned with in women’s college basketball. From start to finish, the Gamecocks executed their game plan flawlessly, showcasing their elite defense, balanced scoring, and depth of talent. The game was a showcase of their all-around dominance and set the stage for another deep run in March Madness. Let’s dive into the key highlights, the standout performances, and what this victory means for both South Carolina and the women’s college basketball landscape.

A Championship Run to Remember

South Carolina entered the SEC Tournament as the No. 1 seed, having dominated the regular season with a 14-2 conference record. The Gamecocks were fresh off a series of impressive victories and had built a reputation for suffocating defense and high-octane offense. Coach Staley’s squad was riding a wave of confidence, and with players like Aliyah Boston, Zia Cooke, and Bree Hall leading the charge, South Carolina was a clear favorite to capture the crown.

However, Texas—led by head coach Vic Schaefer—entered the championship game with a point to prove. The Longhorns had shown tremendous resilience throughout the tournament, earning their spot in the final with impressive victories over tough SEC opponents. While Texas had its sights set on a potential upset, South Carolina was determined to make history by securing a third consecutive SEC Tournament title, and they did so in commanding fashion.

First Half: South Carolina’s Dominance from the Tip

From the opening tip, it was clear that South Carolina was in control. The Gamecocks set the tone defensively, pressuring Texas into tough shots and forcing multiple turnovers. Texas struggled to find offensive rhythm, unable to break through South Carolina’s suffocating defense, which has been one of the team’s hallmarks throughout the season.

South Carolina’s offensive strategy was equally impressive. They moved the ball quickly, ran the floor with precision, and created high-quality scoring opportunities in transition. The Gamecocks’ ability to play fast and aggressive basketball was on full display in the first half.

Aliyah Boston, the national player of the year candidate, was dominant in the paint from the opening whistle. Her size and strength allowed her to bully her way to easy baskets, and her defensive presence was felt as she protected the rim with authority. Boston finished the first half with 12 points and 7 rebounds, a performance that set the tone for the Gamecocks’ inside game.

On the perimeter, Zia Cooke continued to showcase her offensive versatility. Cooke, known for her ability to score in a variety of ways, hit multiple three-pointers early in the game, further stretching Texas’ defense. Her quick release and ability to drive to the basket kept the Longhorns on their heels throughout the opening 20 minutes.

Despite strong efforts from Rori Harmon, who was Texas’ primary offensive weapon in the first half, the Longhorns couldn’t keep pace with the Gamecocks. South Carolina went into the halftime break with a commanding 40-24 lead, and the result seemed all but decided.

Second Half: A Statement Performance

While the game was far from over, South Carolina came out of the locker room in the second half with a renewed sense of urgency. Texas attempted to mount a comeback, but each time they made a run, the Gamecocks quickly put out the fire with timely baskets and crucial defensive stops.

The second half was defined by South Carolina’s depth and balance. Bree Hall provided an offensive spark, contributing 8 points in the second half and helping the Gamecocks extend their lead. Hall’s ability to attack the basket and finish through contact was crucial in keeping Texas at arm’s length.

Laeticia Amihere also made a significant impact, contributing with both points and rebounds. Her athleticism and versatility allowed her to guard multiple positions on defense, and she made her presence felt on the boards, helping South Carolina dominate the glass. Amihere finished the game with 10 points and 6 rebounds, playing a key role in the Gamecocks’ success.

The Longhorns, despite their best efforts, couldn’t get into a rhythm. South Carolina’s defense was relentless, and Texas was forced into difficult shots and turnovers. Harmon, who had kept Texas in the game during the first half, was stymied by South Carolina’s defense in the second. She finished with 14 points but shot just 5-of-16 from the field, a testament to the defensive adjustments made by Staley and her coaching staff.

With just under five minutes remaining in the game, South Carolina had built an insurmountable 20-point lead. The Gamecocks were playing with confidence and flair, and their fans could feel that a third consecutive SEC title was within reach. The final buzzer sounded, and South Carolina had secured a 76-54 victory, completing their three-peat in dominating fashion.

Standout Performances

The SEC Tournament Championship Game featured several standout performances from South Carolina players, but the star of the show was undoubtedly Aliyah Boston. The senior center once again demonstrated why she is regarded as one of the best players in the nation. Boston finished the game with a double-double, recording 18 points and 12 rebounds. Her ability to control both ends of the floor was crucial in South Carolina’s victory, and her leadership was evident throughout the contest.

Zia Cooke also played a pivotal role in the Gamecocks’ success. Cooke’s scoring ability kept Texas on edge throughout the game, and she finished with 15 points, including several key three-pointers that helped extend South Carolina’s lead. Her ability to hit shots from all over the floor makes her a constant threat for opposing defenses, and her performance in this game was a testament to her growth as a player.

Bree Hall, as mentioned earlier, added a significant offensive contribution in the second half. Hall’s ability to drive to the basket and finish through contact was key in pushing South Carolina’s lead further out of reach. Her 10-point performance, along with her strong defense, made her an integral part of the Gamecocks’ championship-winning effort.

On the Texas side, Rori Harmon was the standout performer, but she didn’t have enough help. Harmon’s 14 points were hard-earned, and she was forced to take on much of the offensive load for the Longhorns. While Texas had moments of brilliance, they were simply outmatched by South Carolina’s depth and overall team play. DeeDee Hagemann and Aaliyah Moore provided support, but the Longhorns couldn’t generate enough offense to compete with the Gamecocks’ defensive prowess.

The Significance of the Win for South Carolina

South Carolina’s victory in the SEC Tournament marks a new chapter in the program’s history. The Gamecocks have now won three consecutive SEC Tournament championships, a feat that speaks volumes about the consistency and excellence of the program under coach Dawn Staley. This win further cements South Carolina’s position as one of the premier programs in women’s college basketball.

For Dawn Staley, this victory is another feather in her cap as one of the most successful and respected coaches in the country. Staley has built South Carolina into a juggernaut, and her ability to maintain success year after year has made her a role model for aspiring coaches everywhere. Her leadership has created a culture of excellence, and her players continue to thrive under her guidance.

As the NCAA Tournament approaches, South Carolina enters as one of the top contenders to win the national title. With a talented roster that boasts several future WNBA prospects, the Gamecocks will be a formidable opponent for any team in the field. Their defensive prowess, combined with their high-powered offense, makes them one of the most balanced teams in the country.

What’s Next for Texas?

While Texas fell short in the championship game, the Longhorns have plenty to be proud of this season. Under coach Vic Schaefer, Texas has made significant strides and is undoubtedly a rising force in women’s college basketball. Their performance in the SEC Tournament, where they defeated some of the best teams in the country, demonstrated that the Longhorns are on the right path.

For Texas, this loss to South Carolina is a learning experience. With a roster full of talent, including rising stars like Rori Harmon and Aaliyah Moore, Texas will look to build on this experience as they head into the NCAA Tournament. The Longhorns have the tools to make a deep run and will be a team to watch in the coming weeks.

 South Carolina’s Continued Dominance

The 2025 SEC Tournament Championship Game was a showcase of South Carolina’s continued dominance in women’s college basketball. Their 76-54 victory over Texas in the final not only solidified their third consecutive SEC title but also reminded the basketball world of their ability to perform at the highest level. With the NCAA Tournament on the horizon, the Gamecocks will be a team to watch as they aim for their second consecutive national championship.

For Texas, the journey continues, and the future looks bright under coach Schaefer’s leadership. As the Longhorns look to build on their success in the SEC Tournament, they will be a team to keep an eye on as they strive to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament.

The 2025 Women’s SEC Tournament was a testament to the incredible talent, resilience, and teamwork that define the Gamecocks’ program under Dawn Staley’s leadership. As South Carolina celebrates their three-peat, all eyes will be on them as they look to capture even more titles in the years to come.