Michigan, Texas, South Carolina and TCU Secure Elite Eight Spots in Women's March Madness
In a thrilling day of Sweet 16 action, the Michigan Wolverines staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Louisville, while top seeds Texas and South Carolina, along with TCU, advanced comfortably to the Elite Eight of the women's NCAA Tournament.
Michigan's Stunning Rally Overcomes Louisville
Olivia Olson led the charge with 19 points, and fellow sophomore Syla Swords contributed 16 as No. 2 seed Michigan overcame a slow start to secure a 71-52 victory over Louisville. The Wolverines faced an 11-point deficit early on but ignited a 16-0 run in the second quarter to erase it. After breaking a tie in the third quarter with 17 consecutive points, Michigan cruised to their second Elite Eight appearance in the past five seasons.
Te'Yala Delfosse played a pivotal role, adding 10 points, eight rebounds, and two blocks, including a key three-pointer during the second-quarter surge. Michigan (28-6) tied a school record for victories and will now face top-seeded Texas on Monday night for a chance to reach the Final Four.
Texas Dominates Kentucky to Advance
Rori Harmon delivered an all-around performance with 11 points, seven assists, and six steals, propelling No. 1 seed Texas to a 76-54 win over Kentucky. Jordan Lee topped the scoring with 18 points, while All-America forward Madison Booker added 17 points, eight rebounds, and five assists. The Longhorns (34-3) extended their winning streak to 11 games and are set to meet Michigan in the Fort Worth Regional 3 final.
Texas responded to an early three-pointer from Kentucky's Amelia Hassett with a decisive 15-0 run, showcasing their defensive prowess. Under coach Vic Schaefer, the Longhorns have reached the Elite Eight for three consecutive years, aiming to build on last season's Final Four run.
South Carolina Cruises Past Oklahoma
Ta'Niya Latson exploded for 28 points, and Raven Johnson added 18 as No. 1 seed South Carolina overwhelmed Oklahoma 94-68. The Gamecocks (34-3) jumped to a 10-0 lead early and never looked back, advancing to face TCU in the Sacramento 4 Regional final. South Carolina has been a powerhouse in recent years, making six Final Four appearances in the last eight tournaments and capturing three national championships.
Latson, playing in her first Sweet 16, was instrumental in the fast start, scoring eight of the team's first 10 points. Oklahoma struggled with turnovers, allowing South Carolina to maintain control throughout the game.
TCU's Dynamic Duo Powers Past Virginia
Marta Suarez and Olivia Miles formed an unstoppable partnership, combining for 61 points to lead No. 3 seed TCU to a 79-69 victory over Virginia. Suarez posted a double-double with 33 points and 10 rebounds, while Miles added 28 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists. The Horned Frogs (32-5) used a 17-4 run in the second half to seize control and secure their second straight Elite Eight berth.
TCU will now take on South Carolina on Monday, with both teams vying for a spot in the Final Four in Phoenix. Suarez and Miles, likely WNBA draft picks, have made their final collegiate season memorable with this deep tournament run.
Key Takeaways:
- Michigan's comeback highlights their resilience and sets up a top-two seed clash with Texas.
- Texas and South Carolina continue to dominate as top seeds, showcasing their championship pedigree.
- TCU's star duo of Suarez and Miles proves crucial in their Sweet 16 triumph.
- All Elite Eight matchups promise high-stakes basketball as teams compete for Final Four berths.
