Duke and South Carolina Advance with Strong Performances

The 2025 NCAA Women’s Tournament continued Friday with an exhilarating start to the Sweet 16. Duke, the second-seed, showcased their defensive prowess, overcoming rival North Carolina in a closely contested match.

In another impressive display, the top-seeded South Carolina Gamecocks secured their position in the Elite Eight by narrowly defeating Maryland, demonstrating the tenacity that secured them the national title last year.

UCLA’s Lauren Betts Shines Against Ole Miss

In an outstanding performance, Lauren Betts, standing at 6-foot-7, dominated inside scoring 31 points on 15-of-16 shooting. Her efforts led UCLA, the tournament’s number one seed, to a 76-62 victory against the fifth-seeded Ole Miss.

Betts also contributed 10 rebounds and three blocks, propelling the Bruins into their first Elite Eight appearance since 2018. UCLA’s Kiki Rice supported with 13 points and seven assists, while Tameiya Sadler led the Rebels with 14 points.

UCLA will face LSU on Sunday after their impressive performance marked Betts’ second consecutive game scoring over 30 points.

LSU Returns to Elite Eight in Thrilling Comeback

No. 3 seed LSU triumphed over the second-seeded North Carolina State with an 80-73 comeback victory. Aneesah Morrow delivered a stellar performance with 30 points and 19 rebounds, while Mikaylah Williams’ crucial fourth-quarter play included a go-ahead layup late in the game.

LSU’s rally included a 10-0 run to close the game, with Morrow achieving her 30th double-double of the season, contributing significantly to LSU’s third consecutive Elite Eight berth.

South Carolina Staves Off Maryland Challenge

The defending champions from South Carolina took on fourth-seeded Maryland in a back-and-forth battle. With MiLaysia Fulwiley scoring 23 points, including a critical layup with just over two minutes remaining, South Carolina edged Maryland 71-67.

The Gamecocks’ solid defense prevented the Terps from scoring for three crucial minutes in the closing stages, allowing South Carolina to secure their fifth straight Elite Eight appearance.

Duke Douses UNC’s Hopes

Duke’s successful sink against rival North Carolina in the tournament marked their twelfth Elite Eight appearance in history. Oluchi Okananwa was pivotal off the bench, contributing 12 points and 10 rebounds. The Blue Devils focused on defensive efforts, pulling off a 47-38 victory despite both teams struggling with shooting accuracy.

Duke will compete against either South Carolina or Maryland in the next round, showcasing the intense rivalry and competitive spirit of the tournament.