South Carolina, Maryland Clash in NCAA Sweet 16 Showdown

The No. 1 seeded South Carolina Gamecocks are set to face off against No. 4 Maryland in the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament, as they pursue their third consecutive national championship. Coach Dawn Staley’s team, with a record of 32-3, has been dominant, winning their last nine games, including a commanding 108-48 victory over Tennessee Tech in the tournament's opening round. Maryland, coming off a thrilling double-overtime win against Alabama, enters the matchup with a 25-7 record and a potent offense that averages 81 points per game. Both teams are known for their strong performances, with South Carolina leading in points scored in the paint, while Maryland excels in three-point shooting. Staley emphasizes the challenge of repeating as champions, reflecting on the team's struggles earlier in the season that helped refocus their efforts. The matchup will determine who advances to the Elite Eight, with South Carolina favored by 17.5 points.