NCAA Tournament Final Four Preview: South Carolina vs. Texas (2025)

The stage is set for an exhilarating showdown in the 2025 NCAA Tournament Final Four, as the South Carolina Gamecocks take on the Texas Longhorns. Both teams have had a remarkable journey to this point in the tournament, showcasing incredible skill, resilience, and depth. The matchup promises to be one of the most highly anticipated games of the season, with both teams having a legitimate claim to a national title. Let’s break down the lineups, analyze the teams, and provide a prediction for what will surely be a thrilling contest.

South Carolina Gamecocks: A Team Built for the Big Stage

South Carolina enters this Final Four clash as a powerhouse, boasting a balanced team with a deep roster and a coach with a history of success. Under the leadership of head coach Dawn Staley, the Gamecocks have established themselves as one of the premier programs in women’s basketball, consistently competing for national titles. This season has been no different, as they have stormed their way through the tournament, proving to be a formidable force on both ends of the court.

Key Players for South Carolina:

1. Aliyah Boston (Forward, Senior)
   Aliyah Boston is arguably the best player in women’s college basketball right now. A physical force in the paint, Boston has been a double-double machine all season long. Her combination of strength, skill, and basketball IQ allows her to dominate on both ends of the floor. Whether it’s scoring in the post, blocking shots, or grabbing crucial rebounds, Boston’s presence has been a game-changer for South Carolina. Her leadership will be essential in this Final Four clash against a tough Texas squad.
2. Zia Cooke (Guard, Senior)
   Zia Cooke has been a key player for South Carolina for years, and her experience will be invaluable in this high-stakes matchup. As one of the most talented scorers in the country, Cooke can create her own shot from anywhere on the court. Whether it’s driving to the basket, pulling up for mid-range jumpers, or knocking down three-pointers, she’s a versatile offensive weapon. Her ability to handle pressure situations will be tested in this matchup against a gritty Texas team.
3. Brea Beal (Guard, Senior)
   Brea Beal’s defensive prowess and versatility make her an X-factor for South Carolina. Beal has the ability to guard multiple positions and is known for her tenacious defense. Against Texas, Beal will be crucial in limiting their offensive threats and creating turnovers. Her offensive game has also improved, making her a dual threat on both ends of the floor.
4. Laeticia Amihere (Forward, Junior)
   Laeticia Amihere brings athleticism and length to the Gamecocks’ frontcourt. Her ability to stretch the floor, along with her rebounding and shot-blocking, adds another dimension to South Carolina’s defense and offense. Amihere’s energy and effort will be key in keeping the Longhorns on their toes and creating second-chance opportunities.

Team Strengths:

• Defensive Dominance: South Carolina has been one of the top defensive teams in the nation, and their ability to lock down opponents has been a hallmark of their tournament run. With players like Boston, Beal, and Amihere, they have the length and athleticism to contest shots and force turnovers. Their aggressive defense can frustrate opponents and turn defense into offense.
• Rebounding: The Gamecocks have been elite on the boards, particularly on the offensive glass. Aliyah Boston is one of the top rebounders in the country, and South Carolina as a whole is very aggressive in attacking the glass. This advantage will be crucial in this Final Four matchup, as Texas is also a strong rebounding team, and winning that battle could determine the outcome.
• Coaching and Experience: Dawn Staley has coached South Carolina to multiple Final Fours and a national title, and her ability to make adjustments during games has been a key factor in their success. With a team full of experienced players who have been to the big stage before, the Gamecocks are well-prepared for the pressure and intensity of the Final Four.

Texas Longhorns: A Team of Grit and Determination

The Texas Longhorns have had a remarkable season, making it to the Final Four with a team built on toughness, skill, and leadership. Head coach Vic Schaefer, in just a few seasons with the program, has turned Texas into a perennial national contender. This year, the Longhorns have proven they have the talent and heart to compete with anyone in the country, including powerhouse programs like South Carolina.

Key Players for Texas:

1. Rori Harmon (Guard, Junior)
   Rori Harmon is the heart and soul of Texas. As one of the best point guards in the country, Harmon excels in creating opportunities for her teammates while also being a scoring threat herself. Her quickness, court vision, and leadership make her one of the most dangerous players in the tournament. She is an elite passer and can change the pace of the game with her energy. Harmon’s ability to break down defenses and control the tempo will be crucial for Texas against South Carolina’s aggressive defense.
2. Taylor Jones (Forward, Senior)
   Taylor Jones is a versatile forward who can score inside and stretch the floor. She has the ability to pull down rebounds, score in the paint, and step out for mid-range jumpers. Her experience and size will be crucial in matching up against Aliyah Boston and the physicality of South Carolina’s frontcourt. Jones’ ability to contribute in multiple areas makes her one of Texas’ most important players.
3. Aaliyah Moore (Forward, Sophomore)
   Aaliyah Moore is a dynamic player who can impact the game on both ends of the floor. Known for her ability to score in a variety of ways, Moore is also a strong rebounder and a solid defender. Her athleticism will allow Texas to keep up with South Carolina’s fast-paced offense and physicality inside. Moore’s matchup against Laeticia Amihere and Boston will be crucial in determining the outcome of this game.
4. Gabriella Smith (Guard, Senior)
   Gabriella Smith is a steady presence on the floor who can contribute as both a scorer and a defender. Her ability to hit clutch shots from beyond the arc and play solid defense will be vital for Texas in a high-pressure Final Four matchup. Smith’s experience and poise in big moments will be invaluable for a Longhorns team that relies on veteran leadership.

Team Strengths:

• Toughness and Grit: Texas has earned a reputation for its tough, physical play. Whether it’s crashing the boards, getting to the free-throw line, or playing lockdown defense, the Longhorns bring intensity to every game. Their ability to stay composed and stay aggressive in high-pressure situations will serve them well against a powerhouse team like South Carolina.
• Defensive Efficiency: Texas is one of the best defensive teams in the country, and they excel in limiting their opponents’ offensive options. With players like Harmon, Jones, and Smith, they can shut down opposing shooters and disrupt passing lanes. Their defensive strategy will be put to the test against South Carolina’s high-powered offense, but they have the tools to make things difficult for the Gamecocks.
• Coaching and Game Management: Vic Schaefer is known for his defensive schemes and his ability to manage games under pressure. Schaefer has taken Texas to the Final Four and has a reputation for getting the most out of his players in big games. His tactical adjustments and ability to motivate his team will be key in navigating the pressure of the Final Four.

Game Analysis and Key Matchups

This game is a true battle of styles. South Carolina’s strength lies in their physicality, depth, and defensive dominance, while Texas has made their mark with defensive intensity and the leadership of Rori Harmon.

South Carolina’s Frontcourt vs. Texas’ Rebounding and Interior Defense

A significant factor in this game will be how South Carolina’s dominant frontcourt of Aliyah Boston, Laeticia Amihere, and Kamilla Cardoso match up against Texas’ rebounding and interior defense. Boston’s ability to dominate in the paint will be tested by the size and physicality of Taylor Jones and Aaliyah Moore. If Texas can limit Boston’s effectiveness and keep her off the boards, they will have a better shot at slowing down the Gamecocks’ offense.

Rori Harmon vs. Zia Cooke and Brea Beal

The matchup between Rori Harmon and South Carolina’s defensive guards, Zia Cooke and Brea Beal, will be a key storyline. Harmon has the ability to break down defenses and create opportunities for her teammates, while Cooke and Beal will look to shut her down. The battle for tempo will be crucial here: If Harmon can dictate the pace of the game, Texas will be in a good position to control the flow and execute their game plan.

Prediction: South Carolina 68, Texas 61

While both teams are incredibly talented and have the potential to win, South Carolina’s overall balance, depth, and dominance on both sides of the ball give them the edge in this matchup. Aliyah Boston’s presence in the paint and South Carolina’s elite defense will make it difficult for Texas to score efficiently. Though Texas will fight hard with the leadership of Rori Harmon and the toughness of Taylor Jones, South Carolina’s physicality and ability to dominate on the boards will prove to be the difference in this Final Four showdown.