Huge congrats to the UCLA Bruins for their spectacular performances in Phoenix at the NCAA Women’s Final Four basketball tournament! If our Gamecock Women couldn’t win it all, I was personally pleased that a team coached by another woman, Cori Close, who had pursued the trophy with 15 years of patience and persistence, was able to cut the net.
Our Gamecock women overcame adversity during the 2025-26 season and were thrilled to make the Final Four for the sixth season in a row. Although the team fell short by a game during March Madness, I congratulate Coach Dawn Staley and her staff for perhaps, in my humble opinion, the best coaching job of their careers. Three of our players are headed to the WNBA Draft in New York City on Monday, April 13th.
Ta’Niyah Latson Madina Okot Raven Johnson
Gosh, I will miss these young women who have exceeded my expectations with their grit and determination to win. I wish them every success as they pursue the exciting paths ahead. Forever to thee – you’ve given us great joy during your time on and off the court at The University of South Carolina. Please come home to visit when you can!
Finally, the spectacle created by UConn coach Geno Auriemma at the end of their loss in Game 1 of the Final Four showed his lack of respect for his coaching staff, his players, and the game of basketball itself. I felt the pain of basketball fans everywhere for having to endure what became a major distraction through excessive media coverage of a grown man’s poor sportsmanship.
The young women who play basketball at the collegiate level make tremendous sacrifices to entertain their fans. We feel the energy and excitement when our girls win, the disappointments when they lose. Regardless, the game should always be the winner.
Onward.
I'll Call It Like I See It 
Leave a comment