3 keys for Stanford vs South Carolina in 2021 Women’s Final Four

Effort Will Make the Difference

As cliché as it may be to say effort will decide the outcome of a game, it’s very much true in this matchup. Stanford and South Carolina are very similar in their production on both ends of the floor and almost in every category. These teams are powerful, despite microscopic differences in their offensive approaches.

Both the Gamecocks and Cardinal score the ball exceptionally well and are very stingy on the defensive end. They each feature star power capable of overtaking games and turning the momentum in their favor. Stanford features a little less scoring depth than South Carolina, but the results these teams have experienced are identical.

Stanford showed in their last matchup against Louisville they are susceptible to a down game, but will assuredly collect themselves and appropriately prepare for the tough road ahead. Guard Kiana Williams is playing in her hometown and is a feel-good story if the Cardinal can cut down the nets. However, she will have to help guide her team to victory against a South Carolina team playing their best basketball of the season first.

The Gamecocks will be extremely motivated after shutting down a talented Longhorns team to close their game in the Elite 8. Aliyah Boston will be a handful for the Cardinal down low and her dominance on the glass could swing this game one way or another. Collectively USC has shored up previous weak areas and is looking to stifle yet another team in the tournament on their path to victory.

With these teams being so equal, the 50-50 plays are going to ultimately decide who is able to come out on top.