From the remarkable dunk by Ashlyn Watkins to the emergence of two players breaking free from their shooting slumps, the South Carolina women's basketball team stole the spotlight on Sunday. The No. 4 Gamecocks, with a stellar 9-1 record, showcased their dominance by defeating the No. 13 TCU Horn Frogs 85-52 in a neutral site game in Fort Worth, Texas. This marked the first loss for the Horn Frogs, who entered the game with a perfect 9-0 record.

Defense Shines as South Carolina Holds TCU in Check

The Gamecocks put on an extraordinary defensive display, confining TCU to a mere nine points in both the second and third quarters. Sedona Prince, TCU's 6-foot-7 center averaging 19.4 points this season, was held to just six points and two rebounds. Star guard Hailey Van Lith managed 21 points for TCU, but it was not enough to overcome South Carolina's stifling defense. The Horn Frogs finished the game shooting at a dismal 33% from the field and committed 20 turnovers, a season high, which allowed South Carolina to capitalize and score 30 points off their mistakes.The South Carolina guards, MiLaysia Fulwiley and Raven Johnson, who had struggled in the previous three games, combined to have a much-improved performance. Fulwiley led the team with 20 points, while Johnson contributed 11. Coach Dawn Staley's strategic game plan saw four players score 10 or more points, and an impressive 10 out of 12 players who saw the court on Sunday managed to score.

Guardian Angels: Fulwiley and Johnson's Comeback

In the face of their shooting slump, Fulwiley and Johnson showed remarkable determination and skill. Their combined 20 and 11 points respectively not only boosted the team's scoring but also lifted the spirits of the entire squad. Fulwiley's aggressive play and Johnson's steady hand at the point guard position were crucial in leading the Gamecocks to victory. Their ability to step up when it mattered most demonstrated their growth and maturity as players.

Offensive Explosion: South Carolina's Scoring Prowess

South Carolina's offensive attack was a sight to behold. With multiple players contributing double-digit points, the team's scoring depth was on full display. The balanced scoring allowed them to maintain a consistent lead throughout the game and put TCU on the back foot. From three-point shots to driving to the basket, the Gamecocks' offense was a well-oiled machine. Their ability to create scoring opportunities and convert them into points was a key factor in their dominant performance.The team's offensive success was not just limited to the starters. Even the bench players made significant contributions, showing that South Carolina has a strong and talented roster. This offensive firepower will be crucial as they continue their season and face tougher opponents.South Carolina's victory over TCU was a testament to their overall team performance. From defense to offense, every aspect of their game was on point. With their next five games lined up, including matchups against USF, Charleston Southern, Wofford, Missouri, and Mississippi State, the Gamecocks will look to build on this momentum and continue their winning streak.