In a thrilling showdown, the South Carolina Gamecocks capped off their perfect season with an impressive 87-75 victory over the Iowa Hawkeyes in the NCAA championship game on Sunday in Cleveland. The Gamecocks, who boasted an impeccable 38-0 record, proved their dominance once again with a well-rounded scoring effort and a commanding performance on the boards.

Freshman Tessa Johnson emerged as a pivotal player for South Carolina, contributing 19 points off the bench and igniting the team's momentum. However, it was Kamilla Cardoso who showcased her usual brilliance, leading the team with 15 points, 17 rebounds, and three blocks, establishing herself as the heart and soul of the Gamecocks' impressive two-way game.

This loss concludes a record-breaking collegiate career for Iowa's Caitlin Clark, who departs as the all-time leading scorer in both men's and women's college basketball. Despite her exceptional performance of scoring 30 points to lead the Hawkeyes on Sunday, Clark's efforts fell short against the formidable Gamecocks.

During the trophy presentation, South Carolina coach Dawn Staley acknowledged Clark's remarkable contributions to the sport, expressing her admiration, "Caitlin Clark, if you're somewhere watching this, you are one of the GOATs of our game and we appreciate you." Staley commended Clark for shouldering a significant burden of popularity and her everlasting impact on basketball.

Cardoso, with her outstanding performance throughout the tournament, was awarded the Most Outstanding Player title, a fitting tribute before she transitions to the WNBA as a highly projected lottery pick.

Adding to the celebration, the South Carolina team received congratulations from former President, Joe Biden, who invited them to visit the White House in honor of their victory. President Biden tweeted, "Congrats to @GamecockWBB and Coach @DawnStaley on a perfect season and their third title! It's been an incredible year for women's basketball, and this team was so disciplined and talented. Well deserved."

Reflecting on the journey, Coach Staley dedicated the victory to "The Freshies," a group of star players who left South Carolina for the WNBA after falling short in the Final Four to Iowa last year. Now, they will have the opportunity to celebrate their championship success with well-deserved rings.

As the dust settles on this memorable season, Caitlin Clark's accomplishments will forever be etched in the annals of women's basketball history. With her exceptional talent and status as the clear No. 1 pick, she is set to captivate audiences as the WNBA season commences on May 15.

The emotions ran high after the game, with tears visible everywhere. Even alum Aliyah Boston couldn't hold back her emotions, breaking down behind a teary-eyed Dawn Staley during the postgame interview, a testament to the incredible journey and the significance of this historic victory for South Carolina.

In defeating Iowa and claiming their third championship title, the South Carolina Gamecocks have solidified their status as the nation's best team, leaving an indelible mark on women's college basketball.