The South Carolina Gamecocks achieved perfection, capping off an undefeated season with a thrilling **87-75 victory** over Caitlin Clark and the Iowa team in the NCAA championship game held in Cleveland. As the best team in the nation throughout the season, South Carolina showcased their prowess on Sunday, combining an all-around scoring effort with dominant rebounding.
Key highlights from the championship game include:
- Raven Johnson defender: the talented guard for South Carolina, played a crucial role in their victory. In the final game against Iowa, she was the primary defender against Caitlin Clark. With Johnson guarding her, Clark made **5-of-20 shots** and scored just **12 points**. Johnson's defensive efforts significantly contributed to South Carolina's national championship win.
- Freshman Sensation: Tessa Johnson, a freshman, played a pivotal role for the Gamecocks, contributing **19 points** off the bench.
- Kamilla Cardoso's Dominance: Kamilla Cardoso, a consistent force, demonstrated her impact once again. She notched **15 points**, grabbed **17 rebounds**, and blocked three shots, showcasing her versatility on both ends of the court.
- Clark's Farewell: The loss marked the end of a remarkable career for Caitlin Clark. She departs as the all-time leading scorer in both men's and women's college basketball. Despite her impressive **30-point** performance for Iowa on Sunday, it fell short against South Carolina's formidable team.
In summary, South Carolina joins a select group of teams that have achieved an undefeated season in women’s college basketball history. Other notable undefeated champions include the 1995 UConn Huskies, the 1998 Tennessee Lady Vols, and the 2012 Baylor Lady Bears2. The Gamecocks’ remarkable run underscores the excitement and growth of women’s basketball in recent years. South Carolina's undefeated season culminated in a well-deserved championship victory, solidifying their status as the nation's top team. 🏀🏆 As always, GROW YOUR GRIT
