SPORTS

South Carolina Opens NCAA Tournament Against Southern Saturday

PUBLISHED Mar 20, 2026, 6:30 AM ET

Read, Watch or Listen

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 12

Center 100%

Sources: 12

COLUMBIA, S.C. — South Carolina's women's basketball team, the No. 1 seed, will host 16th-seeded Southern at Colonial Life Arena at 1 p.m. ET on March 21. Southern advanced after a 65-53 First Four victory over Samford on March 19, setting the Gamecocks' opening-round matchup. Coach Dawn Staley's Gamecocks (31-3) aim to advance to face the winner of Clemson and Southern Cal on March 23 in the Sacramento 4 Regional; players noted the impact of an SEC championship loss to Texas earlier this month and emphasized discipline and defense for Saturday's game.

By Emily Rhodes | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Earlier March 2026: South Carolina loses to Texas in the SEC Tournament championship game.
March 19, 2026: Southern defeats Samford 65-53 in the First Four.
March 21, 2026: South Carolina (No. 1) hosts Southern (No. 16) at Colonial Life Arena, 1 p.m. ET.
March 23, 2026: Potential second-round matchup against winner of Clemson vs Southern Cal in Sacramento 4 Regional.
Historical context: South Carolina is making its 14th straight NCAA appearance under Dawn Staley with multiple deep tournament runs.

News Intelligence

This game is a chance to cheer on the home team and support local sports. If you're a fan of South Carolina's women's basketball, it's a must-watch. The Gamecocks' performance could also impact the local community's morale. Mark your calendar for 1 p.m. ET on March 21.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 12
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 12

Who Benefited

South Carolina benefits from a No. 1 seed, home-court first-round game, and national television exposure; Southern University benefits from NCAA Tournament visibility after a First Four victory and increased attention for its program and players.

Who Impacted

South Carolina experienced a setback with an SEC Tournament championship loss to Texas earlier this month, creating immediate tactical and momentum adjustments; Southern faces the challenge of competing as a 16-seed against the top-seeded Gamecocks.

Media Bias