Breaking News: After trailing the entire game, South Carolina women’s basketball never got enough offensive momentum against Texas and fell 66-62 on Sunday in Austin….

In a highly anticipated matchup, the No. 2 South Carolina Gamecocks were defeated by the No. 4 Texas Longhorns 66-62 on Sunday, February 9, 2025, at the Moody Center in Austin, Texas. This loss snapped South Carolina’s remarkable 57-game Southeastern Conference (SEC) regular-season winning streak, a run that had extended since 2021.

Game Highlights

The Longhorns were led by Madison Booker, who recorded a double-double with 20 points and 11 rebounds. Rori Harmon played a pivotal role in the closing moments, hitting two critical free throws in the final seconds to secure the victory for Texas. citeturn0search0

South Carolina struggled to gain offensive momentum throughout the game, trailing from start to finish. The Gamecocks’ defense was unable to contain Texas’s scoring, and their own offensive efforts fell short, resulting in their first regular-season conference loss in over three years. citeturn0news15

Impact on Rankings

Following the defeat, South Carolina dropped from the No. 2 to the No. 4 position in the Associated Press Top 25 poll, while Texas ascended to No. 3. This shift underscores the competitive nature of women’s college basketball and the significance of such high-profile matchups. citeturn0news17

Coach Dawn Staley’s Perspective

Despite the loss, South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley remained optimistic. She acknowledged that occasional setbacks are part of the game and emphasized the team’s ability to control its destiny moving forward. Staley’s perspective reflects a focus on resilience and preparation for future challenges. citeturn0news15

Record-Breaking Viewership

The game garnered significant national attention, drawing a record-breaking viewership for a women’s basketball game this season. The matchup peaked at 1.3 million viewers across ESPN platforms, highlighting the growing interest and investment in women’s sports. citeturn0search2

Looking Ahead

While the loss is a setback, it provides valuable insights for the Gamecocks as they prepare for the remainder of the season. The team will aim to rebound and continue their pursuit of excellence in the SEC and beyond.