After UConn’s emphatic 82–59 win over South Carolina in last April’s national championship, Dawn Staley wasted no time retooling her roster. Determined to avenge the loss, the Gamecocks’ head coach immediately set out to fix the flaws that cost her team the title a plan that could make South Carolina a serious threat to the reigning champions.
UConn’s victory exposed a key weakness in South Carolina’s system: while the Huskies had multiple shot creators, Staley’s squad relied too heavily on teamwork and execution. The Gamecocks shot just 34.4% from the field and turned the ball over 11 times. Even their elite defense couldn’t keep pace once the offense faltered.
To address that gap, Staley landed one of college basketball’s top scorers, Ta’Niya Latson, who averaged 25.2 points per game. Staley praised her new star’s natural scoring ability, saying Latson brings a unique offensive versatility the Gamecocks have lacked. Latson herself admitted she joined South Carolina to challenge herself and improve defensively, something she’s already shown progress in under Staley’s guidance.
By the end of summer, both coach and player saw clear growth Latson’s defense sharpened, her athleticism improved, and her confidence soared. Staley emphasized patience, calling her rebuild “a long game,” not a quick fix.
With South Carolina holding the best championship odds (+250) and UConn close behind (+260), their next clash could be monumental though this year’s schedule ends their 11-year streak of regular-season meetings.
For UConn, the formula to stay ahead lies in depth and shooting power. The Huskies boast three top-25 preseason players Sarah Strong, Azzi Fudd, and Serah Williams forming perhaps the nation’s most potent trio. Williams, a 6’4″ transfer and former Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year, adds much-needed interior strength, giving UConn the tools to counter both South Carolina’s size and Latson’s aggressive drives.
Staley’s revenge blueprint is simple but effective: recognize the weakness, recruit the right weapon, and play the long game. Whether UConn can withstand the Gamecocks’ revamped attack remains to be seen but the rivalry is far from over.
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