Mississippi State vs. South Carolina 2017 final score: South Carolina wins NCAA Women’s basketball tournament championship

Sunday’s National Championship game featured two teams making their first-ever appearances in the tournament’s title game. After Mississippi State defeated UConn in the national semifinals, it meant there would be a new champion for the first time in five years. South Carolina defeated Mississippi State, 67-55, on Sunday to become that team.

After the massive upset that Mississippi State pulled off with UConn, one would think there may be a letdown having to play again less than 48 hours later. But Mississippi State came out firing as Victoria Vivians hit a three-pointer to start the game and the Bulldogs jumped out to a 7-1 lead.

Mississippi State led for all but the final 24 seconds of the first quarter but South Carolina was able to jump out to a four-point lead and end the first quarter ahead 18-14.

It was all South Carolina in the second quarter as Mississippi State stars Allisha Gray and A’ja Wilson took over the game. They finished the first half with 11 points each and South Carolina had a 10-point at the break.

The third quarter continued to belong to South Carolina until late when Mississippi State found its legs again and went on a 9-0 run to bring the game within four points. South Carolina responded and led 52-44 going into the fourth quarter.

Mississippi State got within four points several times in the fourth quarter but South Carolina was able to hold off any run. Wilson took over the game in the fourth quarter, blocking shots, grabbing rebounds, and scoring when needed. She finished the night with 23 points and 10 rebounds, scoring nine points in the fourth quarter.

South Carolina coach Dawn Staley played in three Final Fours as a player but never won. She is the only woman to be named the MOP of the tournament but lose the final game. She finally has her national championship.

Have a night, Gamecocks fans!