Final score of Texas vs. South Carolina: The Longhorns break the Gamecocks’ record-breaking winning streak

Introduction: The Historic Showdown

On February 9, 2025, the Texas Longhorns faced off against the South Carolina Gamecocks in what was billed as a monumental clash in women’s college basketball. The matchup held significant weight not just for its status as a top-tier game between two of the nation’s best teams but also because it represented a pivotal moment in the season. For South Carolina, the game was about maintaining an unprecedented streak. They had won 57 consecutive Southeastern Conference (SEC) regular-season games, a run that began in 2021 and made them one of the most dominant forces in women’s basketball. The Longhorns, sitting at No. 4 in the nation, were hungry to prove their legitimacy as national title contenders.

With a packed arena at the Moody Center in Austin, Texas, the stakes were high for both teams. A victory for the Longhorns would not only provide a critical statement win but also break South Carolina’s historic streak, which had already stood as a testament to the Gamecocks’ dominance in the sport. For South Carolina, maintaining their unbeaten record would keep their momentum going as they eyed another deep run in the NCAA Tournament. This was a game with ramifications beyond just the rankings—it was a clash of championship aspirations, with both teams showcasing their talent and resilience.

Pre-Game Expectations: Streaks, Stars, and Stakes

Before the game, all eyes were on South Carolina, which had built its incredible streak on a foundation of superb talent, coaching, and mental toughness. Under the leadership of head coach Dawn Staley, South Carolina had become a dominant force in women’s basketball, regularly finishing atop the SEC and winning multiple national championships in recent years. The Gamecocks boasted an impressive roster led by standout players like MiLaysia Fulwiley, Joyce Edwards, and Chloe Kitts, all of whom had the ability to take over a game at any moment.

However, as formidable as South Carolina was, Texas had come into the matchup with confidence and a chip on their shoulder. The Longhorns had been one of the most consistent teams in the country, and their roster was filled with high-caliber talent capable of making waves on the national stage. The presence of senior leader Rori Harmon, a seasoned point guard known for her clutch performances, was a key factor. She was one of the best playmakers in the country and her leadership would be critical in Texas’s attempt to disrupt South Carolina’s rhythm. Alongside her, forward Madison Booker, who had been one of the team’s most consistent performers, was ready to make a statement with her versatile scoring and rebounding ability.

The Longhorns’ defense also figured to be a major factor in the game. Texas had shown that they could stifle high-powered offenses and force teams into uncomfortable situations. Head coach Vic Schaefer, known for his defensive-minded approach, was expected to implement a strategy to slow down South Carolina’s high-flying offense and force them into difficult shots.

The stakes were clear—Texas had the opportunity to make a statement by snapping one of the longest winning streaks in NCAA history, while South Carolina had the chance to extend their dominance and prove they could overcome the challenge in a hostile environment.

First Half Analysis: A Tightly Contested Battle

The first half of the game was a high-energy affair, with both teams coming out firing. South Carolina, despite the tough atmosphere in Austin, maintained their usual poise early on. They were aggressive offensively, with MiLaysia Fulwiley driving to the basket and finding open looks for her teammates. Joyce Edwards and Chloe Kitts were also active in the paint, crashing the boards and securing second-chance opportunities. The Gamecocks’ ability to control the tempo in the early stages of the game was evident—they played with their trademark aggressiveness and physicality.

However, Texas was quick to answer, as the Longhorns employed a balanced offensive attack and stifled South Carolina’s offense with their defensive pressure. Madison Booker was the first to truly take over for Texas, showcasing her all-around game. She displayed an impressive blend of scoring, rebounding, and defense, making her presence felt in every aspect of the game. Her ability to crash the boards and finish around the rim kept Texas within striking distance, while her defensive ability helped disrupt South Carolina’s offensive flow.

Rori Harmon also had a significant impact early in the game. As the primary ball handler, she was able to set up her teammates and create opportunities on offense. Harmon’s vision and decision-making were on full display, as she facilitated the ball movement and allowed Texas to generate clean looks. Her leadership was apparent as she calmed her team down and kept them focused, ensuring that the Longhorns stayed within reach of the Gamecocks.

The first half ended with a tightly contested score, as both teams traded blows. South Carolina had a slight advantage, but Texas had already shown that they weren’t intimidated by the Gamecocks’ reputation. The key takeaway from the first half was the fact that Texas was playing with a level of intensity and focus that would give South Carolina problems as the game wore on.

Second Half Analysis: Turning the Tide

The second half of the game was where things started to take a dramatic turn. South Carolina, having led at halftime, came out of the break with a renewed sense of urgency. However, it quickly became clear that Texas was not going to let the Gamecocks’ dominance continue unchecked.

The Longhorns began to assert themselves in the paint, outscoring South Carolina 40-26 in this area by the end of the game. This was perhaps the most significant difference in the second half—Texas dominated the rebounding battle and capitalized on second-chance opportunities. Kyla Oldacre, the Longhorns’ backup center, played a pivotal role in this shift. Her eight points in the final quarter were crucial, as she provided an inside presence that South Carolina struggled to contain. Oldacre’s ability to finish around the rim and grab offensive rebounds kept Texas in control during the critical stages of the game.

As the game progressed, it became evident that South Carolina’s usually effective offense was being stifled by Texas’s defensive schemes. Schaefer’s defensive game plan was paying off, as the Longhorns applied consistent pressure and forced the Gamecocks into tough, contested shots. South Carolina’s shooting percentages dropped as they struggled to find clean looks, and turnovers began to creep into their game.

With just under a minute to play, the score was tight, and the pressure was mounting on both teams. This was where the experience of Rori Harmon came into play. With the game on the line, Harmon was composed under pressure, hitting two critical free throws with just 10.8 seconds remaining to give Texas a four-point lead. The clutch free throws sealed the victory for the Longhorns and ended South Carolina’s record-breaking streak.

Individual Player Performances: Standouts in a Crucial Game

• Madison Booker: Booker was a force for Texas throughout the game. She finished with 20 points and 11 rebounds, leading her team in both categories. Her ability to score in the paint and on the perimeter made her a difficult player for South Carolina to contain. Booker’s physicality and presence in the post were key factors in the Longhorns’ success.
• Rori Harmon: Harmon’s leadership and composure were crucial in the final moments of the game. She was not only instrumental in orchestrating Texas’s offense but also contributed defensively with key steals and assists. Her calmness under pressure in the clutch moments helped seal the win.
• Kyla Oldacre: The backup center came off the bench to score 13 points, with eight of those coming in the decisive fourth quarter. Her rebounding and finishing ability were pivotal in Texas’s ability to pull away in the final moments.
• MiLaysia Fulwiley: South Carolina’s standout guard was the Gamecocks’ leading scorer with 13 points, but she was often forced to take difficult shots due to Texas’s defensive intensity. Fulwiley did her best to keep her team in the game, but she couldn’t carry them to victory on her own.
• Joyce Edwards and Chloe Kitts: Both players had solid performances, contributing nine points each, but their efforts were not enough to overcome Texas’s all-around play and defensive schemes.