Sun Mar 08 23:30:00 UTC 2026: ### Longhorns Dethrone Gamecocks to Seize SEC Women’s Basketball Title

The Story:

In a stunning upset, the No. 4 Texas Longhorns defeated the No. 3 South Carolina Gamecocks 78-61 to claim their first Southeastern Conference women’s basketball tournament title on Sunday, March 8, 2026. Madison Booker’s stellar performance, averaging 20 points on 61% shooting throughout the tournament, earned her the MVP award. Texas’s dominant start and consistent scoring proved too much for the three-time defending champion Gamecocks, ending their 12-game win streak.

Texas, which joined the SEC in 2024, showcased its strength by shooting 57% from the field. This victory avenged their loss to South Carolina in the previous year’s championship game. Coach Vic Schaefer made history by becoming the first coach to win the SEC tournament title at multiple schools, having previously led Mississippi State to victory in 2019.

Key Points:

  • Texas Longhorns defeated South Carolina Gamecocks 78-61 to win the SEC Women’s Basketball Tournament.
  • Madison Booker was named MVP of the tournament.
  • Texas shot 57% from the field and led by as much as 17 points at halftime.
  • South Carolina’s 12-game win streak was snapped.
  • Both teams are projected to receive No. 1 seeds in the upcoming NCAA tournament.
  • Vic Schaefer is the first coach to win the SEC tournament title at multiple schools.

Key Takeaways:

  • Texas’s dominant performance signals a significant shift in the landscape of SEC women’s basketball.
  • Madison Booker’s emergence as a star player is a key factor in Texas’s success.
  • South Carolina’s loss, while a setback, could serve as motivation for a deep run in the NCAA tournament, as per Coach Staley’s comments.
  • The Longhorns’ ability to control the paint was crucial to their victory, scoring 40 points inside.
  • Turnovers and mental lapses plagued South Carolina, contributing to their defeat.

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