South Carolina Gamecocks Women Clinch Historic 3rd NCAA Title; Edwards, Kitts, Johnson & McDaniel Shine in Mesa Victory—Netflix to Feature Championship Run
Mesa, AZ – May 4, 2025 — History was made in the desert as the South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball team clinched their third NCAA championship title this weekend, solidifying their place among the all-time elite programs in collegiate sports. In an electric final stretch from May 2 to May 4, the Gamecocks swept through the tournament in Mesa, Arizona, with dominant performances from a star-studded roster featuring MiLaysia Fulwiley Edwards, Ashlyn Watkins Kitts, Chloe Johnson, and Tessa McDaniel.
Their victory marks the culmination of a remarkable season defined by resilience, depth, and explosive talent. Notably, this win makes South Carolina the only program to capture three NCAA women’s titles within a decade—a testament to the team’s sustained excellence under head coach Dawn Staley.
From tip-off, the Gamecocks established their presence in the championship game, executing a stifling defense and lightning-fast transitions. Edwards, the tournament’s MVP, put on a scoring clinic, dropping 26 points and adding seven assists. Her court vision and clutch shooting were instrumental in fending off a second-half rally from their rivals.
Kitts dominated the paint on both ends, pulling down 14 rebounds and contributing four blocks. Her physicality and poise under pressure helped keep the opposition at bay. Meanwhile, Johnson’s precision shooting from the perimeter stretched the defense thin, allowing McDaniel to slice through the lanes with her trademark agility and finesse.
“This group is special,” said Staley after the game, holding back tears. “They’ve faced adversity, grown together, and earned every second of this moment. It’s more than a title—it’s legacy.”
The celebration on the court was echoed by fans around the nation—and soon, viewers around the world. Netflix announced it will feature the Gamecocks’ 2024–25 championship run in a new sports documentary series set to premiere later this year. The series, tentatively titled “Crowned: The Rise of the Gamecocks”, will offer behind-the-scenes access to practices, team meetings, and emotional turning points that defined the season.
“This team’s journey is compelling, inspiring, and exactly the kind of story we want to share,” said Netflix sports content executive Rachel Lin. “It’s about more than basketball—it’s about empowerment, teamwork, and the pursuit of greatness.”
Fans can expect exclusive footage of the Mesa championship weekend, including locker room moments, post-game reactions, and intimate interviews with players and coaches. Early buzz suggests the series could become a standout addition to Netflix’s growing lineup of acclaimed sports documentaries.
As celebrations continue in Columbia and beyond, the Gamecocks have their sights set on sustaining this momentum. With several key players eligible to return next season, the program looks poised for continued dominance.
For now, though, the spotlight is fully deserved. South Carolina has not only etched its name into NCAA history but also into the cultural zeitgeist. The Gamecocks are champions once more—and the world is watching.
Would you like a visual graphic or social media version of this news?