Get ready for a showdown that promises to shake the basketball world! The University of South Florida’s women’s basketball team is gearing up to host the No. 3 ranked South Carolina Gamecocks on ESPN2, and this isn’t just any game—it’s a battle that could redefine the season. But here’s where it gets controversial: Can the Bulls pull off an upset against one of the nation’s top teams? Let’s dive in.
TAMPA, Fla. (December 17, 2025) – The Bulls return to the Yuengling Center, their fortress of dominance, to kick off a four-game homestand. Tip-off is set for 7 p.m., with Geico presenting this highly anticipated matchup. This game isn’t just about bragging rights—it’s a chance for USF to prove they belong in the conversation with college basketball’s elite.
Setting the Stage:
This clash with South Carolina marks the Bulls’ third encounter with a team from last season’s Final Four. USF’s home-court advantage is no joke: they’ve started 5-1 or better at home in each of the last 12 seasons, a feat matched by only seven other Division I teams. Since 2017-18, the Bulls are a staggering 55-4 (.932) in non-conference home games, the best in the American Athletic Conference and 15th best nationally (min. 10 games). But here’s the kicker: Can they maintain this dominance against a powerhouse like South Carolina?
Series History:
This will be the third meeting between USF and South Carolina in as many years, with the Gamecocks holding a 2-0 series lead. However, this is the first time the two teams will face off inside the Yuengling Center. Will the Bulls finally break through on their home court, or will the Gamecocks continue their dominance?
Player Spotlights:
- L’or Mputu is a force to be reckoned with. She’s one of only eight DI players since last season to log at least 1,000 minutes, average eight rebounds per game, and shoot 58.0% from the field. Her streak of 34 straight games with at least four rebounds and one made field goal is the 12th-longest active streak in DI. But can she keep it up against South Carolina’s formidable defense?
- Fatou Diakite is lighting it up this season, shooting 60.8% from the field and 76.0% from the free-throw line. Only one other USF player this century, Shae Leverett in 2018-19, has achieved similar numbers through 11 games.
- Stefanie Ingram is a playmaker extraordinaire. Her 23-point, 4-rebound, 4-assist performance against Vanderbilt was historic, matching Elisa Pinzan’s 2021 outing against No. 9 Oregon. Ingram’s 41.6% share of the team’s assists is the highest in the American and 13th nationally. But can she keep the offense humming against the Gamecocks’ stingy defense?
- Katie Davidson is making waves as only the second USF player this century to score 120+ points with 11 or fewer turnovers in her first 11 career games, joining Janae Stokes from 2008.
Team Stats That Pop:
- USF has four players averaging at least 10.0 points and 3.0 rebounds per game, tied for the most in the American Conference. The last time they achieved this? The 2018-19 season.
- The Bulls are a perfect 46-0 since 2000-01 when scoring 90+ points, one of only 11 DI teams with at least 45 wins in such games.
- USF’s roster boasts a combined 839 DI games played, the most in the American and tied for ninth nationally. But will experience be enough against South Carolina’s talent?
About South Florida Women’s Basketball:
Under interim head coach Michele Woods-Baxter, the Bulls are building on a storied tradition that includes 19 postseason appearances, 10 NCAA Tournament berths, and a 2008-09 WNIT championship. Follow their journey on social media (X, Instagram, Facebook) and GoUSFBulls.com for the latest updates.
Final Thoughts:
This game is more than just a matchup—it’s a statement opportunity for USF. Do you think the Bulls can pull off the upset, or will South Carolina’s dominance continue? Let us know in the comments! And don’t forget to tune in to ESPN2 at 7 p.m. on Thursday to catch all the action. #GoBulls
