After winning the program’s first-ever NCAA Tournament win on Thursday, the Howard Bison women ran into a brick wall against tournament’s No. 1 overall seed, South Carolina.
Howard was held to the fewest points ever scored in a Women’s NCAA Tournament game, as they were throttled by the Gamecocks 79-21.
It was mismatched from the opening tip. The Gamecocks’ stifling defense contributed to Howard making just one field in the first half. The Bison was 1-of-26 shooting from the field, and held to four points in the first half, also a women’s NCAA Tournament record for the fewest points scored in a half.
South Carolina was coming off a stunning upset loss to Kentucky in the SEC Tournament championship game. The Gamecocks got back on track in dominating fashion.
South Carolina led 60-8 by the end of the third quarter. Howard also had 20 turnovers in the game.
Aliyah Boston led the Gamecocks with a game-high 10 points while grabbing 12 rebounds. Victaria Saxton had eight points and 13 rebounds. South Carolina owned the glass, grabbing 69 rebounds to Howard’s 29 boards.
Iyanna Warren led Howard with eight points and five rebounds.
Howard was coming off a First Four win over Incarnate Word on Wednesday night to advance into the Round of 64. South Carolina improved to a 30-2 record and will meet Miami on Sunday in the second round.
Meanwhile, Howard, who won the MEAC regular season and conference tournament, finishes with a 21-10 record in head coach Ty Grace’s second season.
