South Carolina won its third NCAA women's title over Iowa 87-75. Tessa Johnson scored 19 and Kamilla Cardoso 15 as the Gamecocks thwarted Iowa's title hopes.
Iowa Hawkeyes player Caitlin Clark, who smashed Division I scoring records for women and men, played her final game before entering the WNBA draft. Her score was 30.
South Carolina coach Dawn Staley cried after the win. “I’m so incredibly happy for our players,” Staley added. “It doesn't always end like you want, much like last year.”
South Carolina was eliminated last year by Iowa in the Final Four. South Carolina hasn't lost since. “I love my job and our fans—it's great. Very cool. Unbelievable,” Staley said.
With the win, South Carolina had the 10th flawless season in Division I women's basketball history. After accepting the victory alongside her squad, Staley praised Iowa for a “incredible season,” praising Clark.
“I want to personally thank Caitlin Clark for lifting up our sport,” Staley remarked. She carried our sport's burden. It won't stop on the collegiate tour, but when she's the No. 1 choice in the WNBA draft, she'll lift that league up.
“So, Caitlin Clark, if you’re out there: You are one of the GOATs of our game, and we appreciate you,” Staley said. The March Madness tournaments conclude tomorrow night at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, with the UConn Huskies playing the Purdue Boilermakers in the men's NCAA tournament championship game.
Iowa's Caitlin Clark uploaded an Instagram story with her #22 jersey and yellow and black shoes after her team lost the title.
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