In a tense Elite Eight game against Duke, South Carolina, trailing by four points entering the fourth quarter, managed a comeback led by inspiring words from teammates. Te-Hina Paopao urged a strong start, while MiLaysia Fulwiley focused on composure and smart play. Key scoring contributions in the final minutes galvanized the crowd and solidified their victory at 54-50. Despite three straight comeback wins, Coach Staley acknowledged the team's inconsistency, raising questions about their ability to defend their championship title amid uncharacteristic mistakes and shot selections.
For the third consecutive game, the Gamecocks needed a comeback to win. Staley admitted afterward it was not always going to look pretty, and the nerve-wracking four-point victories in the Sweet 16 and Elite Eight left some questioning whether South Carolina can run it back.
Te-Hina Paopao told her teammates to start off fast in the first five minutes so they could reclaim the lead. MiLaysia Fulwiley urged the upperclassmen not to get baited into taking bad shots, to remember they are the reigning national champions.
The huddle broke, and the Gamecocks starters took the floor. Sania Feagin started the scoring on a turnaround jumper. Raven Johnson hit two free throws. By the time Paopao made a driving layup and Chloe Kitts followed with a layup in the paint, the pro-South Carolina crowd was in a frenzy.
Hall thought back to a text message she received earlier in the day from former teammate Aaliyah Boston, telling her to remain calm in the big moments, to let the plays come to her.
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