Sun Mar 23 19:30:00 UTC 2025: **Indiana Hoosiers Aim for Upset Against Reigning Champion South Carolina Gamecocks in NCAA Tournament Rematch**

COLUMBIA, S.C. – The NCAA Women’s Tournament second round will see a rematch of last year’s Sweet 16 clash between the No. 1 seed South Carolina Gamecocks and the No. 9 seed Indiana Hoosiers. Despite South Carolina’s overwhelming victory in last year’s matchup (79-75), the Hoosiers are entering Sunday’s game with renewed hope, fueled by their near-upset last year.

Indiana guard Sydney Parrish, who led the Hoosiers with 21 points in the previous encounter, emphasized the team’s motivation. “Anything can happen,” she stated, pointing to the fact that Indiana nearly overcame a 22-point deficit before ultimately falling short. The absence of South Carolina’s 6-foot-7 center Kamilla Cardoso, a key player in last year’s game, also offers a glimmer of optimism for Indiana.

“Without a 6-7 kid in there… that definitely helps us,” Parrish explained. Indiana’s game plan involves leveraging their strategic advantages to counter South Carolina’s height, focusing on smart play and exploiting opportunities. Hoosier forward Karoline Striplin, a transfer from Tennessee, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the improved ability to execute their offensive strategies without Cardoso’s presence.

While acknowledging the formidable Gamecocks squad, which retained much of last year’s championship-winning roster, Indiana coach Teri Moran expressed confidence in her team’s ability to compete. She emphasized the importance of high assist numbers, low turnovers, and strong defense as keys to success.

South Carolina coach Dawn Staley acknowledged the potential threat. “We just had a film session… and the first thing we discussed was what happened last year,” Staley said, emphasizing their preparedness for another close contest. The Gamecocks are determined to prevent a repeat of last year’s fourth-quarter surge by Indiana. The game promises a thrilling showdown between two determined teams, with Indiana aiming for a significant upset against the defending national champions.

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