South Carolina enters its Sweet 16 matchup against Oklahoma focused on advancement rather than redemption. The Gamecocks, who lost to the Sooners in overtime back in January, insist the rematch isn't about avenging that defeat. Senior Raven Johnson said the team is 'motivated by advancing' rather than settling scores from their earlier 19-7 overtime loss.

Both teams have evolved since that January meeting. Oklahoma, led by freshman Aaliyah Chavez's breakout performance, ended a three-game skid with that win. Coach Jennie Baranczyk said the emotional victory was more about her young team finding its identity than beating South Carolina specifically. The Sooners have since learned to play with Chavez as their point guard, while South Carolina has dominated its first two tournament games, scoring over 100 points in each.

South Carolina brings unmatched tournament experience to the matchup, having reached the Sweet 16 every year since 2014. Oklahoma's last Sweet 16 appearance came in 2013. Despite the historical weight, both teams insist this is a new game. 'You can't be scared,' said Oklahoma's Sahara Williams. The Gamecocks, meanwhile, stay grounded in the present, focused on their goal rather than past results or the legacy surrounding their program.