By XAVIER LEMUS
This is it, down to the wire with everything on the line. There is no direction but forward to the national championship. Like most of the sporting world, the JerEcho has its opinions about the Women’s March Madness winners and losers.
Final Four
The South Carolina Gamecocks have dominated the season going undefeated, tearing down 33 teams. Indiana is also sure to make the Final Four as they are ranked number one in their region. Our third pick goes to the only non-number one seed, UConn. This team has had a rocky road but rallied their troops with Dorkha Juhasz and Aaliyah Edwards leading this confident team. To finish off, we have Iowa making their way into the Final Four. With so much power in their offense, they have set the bar on how to dominate in their division.
National Champion
South Carolina has set the tone all year for what makes an intimidating team. We predict that no one will stop the Gamecocks scary offense or their defense. Coach Dawn Staley has done a tremendous job and will bring the team to this year’s championship.
Cinderella Story
For our Cinderella story, we have selected the Utah Utes. With their first Sweet 16 since 1967, they look to dominate LSU in one of the most anticipated games of the tournament. Utah has been known for its athletics since 1892, and looks to keep dominating during this year’s March Madness.
Individual Player Impact
A standout player in the Sweet 16 is no doubt South Carolina’s very own Aliyah Boston. A 6’ 5” senior with one of the highest scoring stats this year and an intimidating presence, Boston is one of the most important elements of the Gamecocks’ success. Defensively, Boston remains a force and will be a key player for a South Carolina victory in this year’s March Madness.