COLUMBIA, S.C. – No. 1 South Carolina Clinches SEC Regular-Season Title with Dominant Victory over Alabama
Ashlyn Watkins Records Double-Double as Gamecocks Secure Third-Straight Championship
Ashlyn Watkins’ impressive performance led No. 1 South Carolina to a commanding 72-44 victory over Alabama, clinching a share of their third consecutive Southeastern Conference regular-season championship. The win also marked a significant milestone for head coach Dawn Staley, who notched her 600th career victory.
The Gamecocks (26-0, 13-0 SEC) didn’t miss a beat despite the absence of top scorer and rebounder Kamilla Cardoso, who sat out due to soreness following the previous game against Georgia. South Carolina extended their SEC record with their 44th consecutive regular-season league win and their 56th straight victory at home.
Offensive Dominance
Although both teams struggled early on, South Carolina found their rhythm in the second quarter, launching a 22-5 run that propelled them to a comfortable lead. The Gamecocks held Alabama (20-8, 7-6) to just five field goals and 15.6% shooting in the first half, establishing a commanding advantage.
Alabama’s head coach, Kristy Curry, attempted to rally her team with timeouts, but South Carolina’s dominance was insurmountable. The Gamecocks secured their 22nd consecutive victory over the Crimson Tide since Staley took over the program in the 2008-09 season.
Notable Performances
Watkins led South Carolina with 14 points and 10 rebounds, earning her seventh double-double of the season. Bree Hall contributed 13 points, while Tessa Johnson added 12 points to the team’s victory. Jessica Timmons led Alabama with 20 points, as Sarah Ashlee Barker was limited to just four points, well below her average.
With the 72-44 win, the Gamecocks secured their eighth SEC regular-season title in the last 11 years, emphasizing their dominance in the conference. The victory also highlighted Staley’s remarkable achievement of 600 career wins, solidifying her legacy as one of the premier coaches in women’s college basketball.
This decisive win propels South Carolina into the postseason with confidence, as they continue their pursuit of further accolades and championships.
