#south_carolina

Lindsey Graham's Sister Wins Republican Primary to Contest Senate Seat in November Voters in South Carolina have chosen Darline Graham, the sister of late Senator Lindsey Graham, as the Republican candidate to contest his US Senate seat in November. Graham's bid received strong backing from President Donald Trump, who travelled to the state to campaign for her. Graham's victory is being seen as evidence of Trump's continuing influence over the Republican Party. Graham is currently serving in the Senate as a temporary replacement for her brother, who died suddenly in July. She had never previously run for elected office. Republicans and Democrats also held primaries in several other states on Tuesday, as they narrowed down their field of candidates for the midterm elections. Political experts expect that Graham will now go on to succeed in the November election. South Carolina has not elected a Democrat to the Senate for decades. The midterms more generally will decide which party controls the US Congress - which in turn will have a bearing on the second half of Trump's presidency. Graham was running against right-wing Republican Congressman Ralph Norman, who sought to portray his opponent as a puppet of Washington politicians. The head-to-head was set up after the pair emerged as the top two from a wider field of candidates during an initial contest earlier this month. Norman is a supporter of Trump and has voted in favour of many of his policies. But in 2024, he initially backed Trump's primary opponent Nikki Haley as his pick for Republican presidential candidate. With counting almost complete, Graham had received 52.5% of the vote, according to the BBC's US partner CBS News. In a post on X, she thanked her supporters and the president, and said she was "deeply honoured and humbled" by the result.#donald_trump #south_carolina #lindsey_graham #darline_graham #ralph_norman

Sen. Darline Graham Wins South Carolina GOP Senate Race, Defeating Rep. Ralph Norman Sen. Darline Graham secured victory in South Carolina’s Republican Senate primary runoff, defeating Rep. Ralph Norman, according to NBC News projections. The win marks a significant milestone for President Donald Trump, who had actively endorsed and campaigned for Graham following the death of her brother, Sen. Lindsey Graham, six weeks prior. With nearly all votes counted, Graham led Norman by approximately 52% to 48%, a result that solidified her position as the Republican nominee for the November general election. At her election night celebration in Columbia, Graham honored her late brother, acknowledging his enduring influence on her campaign. She expressed gratitude toward Trump for his support, stating, “Our victory would not have been possible without you,” and emphasized South Carolina’s alignment with Trump’s political base. “Mr. President, Lindsey truly loved you and viewed you as one of his closest friends,” she said, reflecting on her brother’s legacy. Norman, meanwhile, conceded the race in Rock Hill, acknowledging the state’s decision while criticizing Trump’s involvement. “I really hate it for the state,” he said, though he admitted the outcome was inevitable. He praised Trump’s policies but questioned the rationale for his support in the race, noting, “I never understood why he got in this race.” Despite the tension, Norman pledged to call Graham and accept the results. Trump’s campaign for Graham was central to the race, with the president holding in-person and virtual rallies to bolster her candidacy. His allies also launched a late-stage $830,000 push via a super PAC, amplifying her visibility.#donald_trump #south_carolina #lindsey_graham #sen_darline_graham #rep_ralph_norman

UConn women's basketball to face South Carolina, Notre Dame, Tennessee The UConn women's basketball team, a 12-time national champion, has released its non-conference schedule for the 2026-27 season, featuring matchups against South Carolina, Notre Dame, Tennessee, and other top programs. The schedule, announced on August 17, 2026, includes games against teams that competed in the 2026 NCAA Tournament, with four of the 10 non-conference opponents playing in that event. The Huskies will open their non-conference slate with a matchup against South Carolina on November 24 at the Hall of Fame Showcase in Uncasville, Connecticut. This game marks the first meeting between the teams since the 2026 Final Four, where UConn lost to the Gamecocks in a dramatic final. Coach Geno Auriemma, known for his fiery temper, reportedly confronted South Carolina coach Dawn Staley before leaving the court after the loss. The rivalry is expected to reignite with heightened stakes. UConn will face Notre Dame on December 9 at Purcell Pavilion in South Bend, Indiana, marking their 58th all-time meeting. The Huskies hold a 41-16 series advantage, though the teams split their last 10 encounters. UConn defeated Notre Dame twice in the 2025 season, once in Storrs, Connecticut, and again in the Elite Eight in Fort Worth, Texas. The matchup is a key test for the Huskies as they aim to maintain their dominance over the Fighting Irish. The team will also face Tennessee on December 12 at a location yet to be announced. UConn has won five of the last six meetings with the Lady Vols, with the most recent setback occurring on February 6, 2025, in Knoxville. That game, during Kim Caldwell’s first season as head coach, saw Tennessee pull off a surprising victory.#south_carolina #duke #notre_dame #uconn #tennessee

UConn unveils women’s basketball non-conference schedule The University of Connecticut women’s basketball team officially released its 2026-2027 non-conference schedule on Monday, highlighting matchups against several top-ranked teams from previous seasons. The schedule includes games against South Carolina, LSU, Michigan, Duke, Louisville, Iowa, Maryland, Ohio State, Notre Dame, and Tennessee. UConn also plans to participate in four high-profile neutral site events, with key dates and locations detailed in the schedule. The Huskies’ non-conference slate begins with three exhibition games before the regular season opener. The team will face Syracuse on October 12 at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut, followed by a home game against Texas on October 19 and a visit to Army on October 25. The regular season will kick off with a matchup against Cornell on November 2. Among the standout neutral site games, UConn will travel to Boston for a matchup against Duke on November 28 at the TD Garden. The team will also compete in the Hall of Fame Women’s Showcase on November 24 against South Carolina at the Mohegan Sun Arena. The third annual Women’s Champions Classic will feature a game against Maryland on December 5 at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. The season will conclude with the ESPNW Invitational on December 20, where UConn will face LSU at the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee. The schedule includes a mix of teams from the Big Ten, SEC, and ACC conferences, with four Big Ten opponents, three SEC teams, and three ACC squads. Series history details for each matchup are provided, showcasing UConn’s dominance in previous encounters. For example, the Huskies hold a 42-12 record against Syracuse and a 10-0 mark against Texas.#michigan #south_carolina #duke #university_of_connecticut #lsu

South Carolina Judge Finds Murdaugh Podcaster in Contempt of Court A South Carolina circuit court judge has ruled that true crime podcaster Mandy Matney is in civil contempt for refusing to comply with a court order to attend a deposition in a high-profile civil lawsuit tied to the case of accused killer Alex Murdaugh. In a 22-page order issued on July 13, 2026, Judge Keith Kelly found Matney willfully disregarded a lawful subpoena and multiple court directives, leading to a $176,500 financial penalty. The sanctions include $171,500 in attorney’s fees and costs for the plaintiffs, Greg Parker and co-defendants, plus a $5,000 fine. The case stems from a wrongful death lawsuit arising from a 2019 boat crash that killed 19-year-old Mallory Beach. The litigation, which exposed alleged financial crimes by Murdaugh, became a focal point for media attention, drawing in figures like Matney, a podcaster who has extensively covered the case. Although Matney is not a party to the underlying lawsuit, she became entangled in the legal proceedings after attorneys sought to depose her during discovery. Kelly’s order detailed that Matney’s deposition was scheduled for March 27, 2026, at a law office in Bluffton, South Carolina, a location that had appeared on subpoenas issued over the preceding five months. Despite repeated court rulings mandating her attendance, Matney refused to comply, insisting she would only participate at her own attorney’s office. Parker’s legal team argued this refusal was a deliberate act of defiance, citing Matney’s failure to object to the deposition location during the five-month subpoena period. The judge concluded that Matney’s decision to avoid the scheduled location was not due to confusion or inability but a “deliberate choice” to disregard the court’s orders.#south_carolina #judge_keith_kelly #mike_murdaugh #mike_murdaugh_case #greg_parker

South Carolina Judge Imposes $171,500 Fine on Podcaster Mandy Matney for Contempt of Court South Carolina Judge Keith Kelly ruled on Monday that podcaster Mandy Matney was in contempt of court for refusing to comply with a subpoena to appear for a deposition in a civil lawsuit. The judge ordered Matney to pay $171,500 in legal fees to three law firms involved in the case and a $5,000 fine. The penalty, detailed in a 22-page order, was imposed after Matney failed to appear for her deposition on March 27, 2026, despite multiple court orders and alternative scheduling options. The law firms seeking Matney’s testimony—Bannister, Wyatt, and Stalvey; Deborah B. Barbier, LLC; and Maynard Nexsen—had initially requested $310,533 in fees, but the judge reduced the amount to $171,500. The breakdown of the award includes $39,900 to Bannister, Wyatt, and Stalvey; $45,950 to Barbier’s firm; and $85,650 to Maynard Nexsen. Judge Kelly cited the need to protect judicial integrity, stating that allowing individuals to disregard court orders would undermine the legal system. Matney, 35, a former journalist and true crime podcaster, initially resisted appearing for the deposition, claiming the location was unsafe. However, the judge dismissed her argument, stating there was no credible evidence to support her claim. In his order, Kelly emphasized that Matney’s actions were deliberate, noting that she could have complied with the court’s March 16, 2026, order to appear within 14 days. The judge also highlighted Matney’s online behavior, including social media posts that appeared to celebrate her defiance.#south_carolina #judge_keith_kelly #mandy_matney #bannister_wyatt_stalvey #deborah_barbier_llc

Lindsey Graham, Key Ally of Donald Trump, Dies After Sudden Illness Lindsey Graham, a longtime U.S. senator and key ally of Donald Trump, has died from a sudden illness, his office announced in the early hours of Sunday. The 71-year-old Republican, who had represented South Carolina in the Senate since 2003, passed away unexpectedly, leaving the political landscape in shock. His death marks the end of an era for the Republican Party, which had seen him as a pivotal figure in its strategy and a staunch defender of Trump’s policies. Graham’s abrupt demise has sent ripples through Washington, with colleagues and allies mourning the loss of a leader known for his unyielding stance on national security and his complex relationship with Trump. The senator’s office released a statement confirming his death, noting that he had “passed away from a brief and sudden illness” on the evening of Saturday, July 11. The family has requested privacy during this difficult time, asking for prayers and condolences. A retired Air Force Reserve colonel and former military lawyer, Graham was a prominent hawk in American politics, advocating for aggressive military action in Iraq and opposing the Iran nuclear deal negotiated under President Barack Obama. His career was defined by a sharp contrast in his views of Trump, evolving from a vocal critic to one of the president’s most loyal supporters. Graham’s political journey began with a fierce opposition to Trump during the 2016 presidential campaign. He publicly denounced the former candidate, calling him a “jackass,” a “race-baiting bigot,” and the “most flawed nominee in the history of the Republican party.” On social media, he warned that endorsing Trump would lead to the party’s downfall, stating, “If we nominate Trump, we will get destroyed … and we will deserve it.#donald_trump #south_carolina #lindsey_graham #joe_lieberman #john_mccain

Former Iowa Star Kate Martin Signs Standard Contract with Los Angeles Sparks Guard Kate Martin has been signed to a standard contract by the Los Angeles Sparks after being waived by the Golden State Valkyries earlier this season. The move follows Martin’s participation in 10 games for the Sparks, where she averaged 7.7 minutes and 2.6 points per contest. Sparks general manager Raegan Pebley praised Martin’s contributions, stating, “Kate has made a meaningful impact on our group both on and off the court. She brings versatility on both ends of the floor, competes at a high level, and consistently puts the team first. We’re excited to see her continue to grow.” Martin joined the Sparks on a player development contract on May 10 after being waived by the Valkyries. The developmental contract allowed her to practice with the team and earn a $750 weekly stipend, along with team benefits. Such contracts enable teams to sign up to two players with three or fewer years of service to practice squads, with the option to activate them for a maximum of 12 games per season. Martin’s activation marks her transition from the developmental agreement to a standard contract. In a corresponding roster adjustment, the Sparks waived guard Ta’Niya Latson, who played in 10 games for the team, averaging 5.0 minutes and 1.8 points per game. Latson, a 2026 WNBA Draft pick selected 20th overall, had previously played in the national title game with South Carolina in April. Her departure from the Sparks reflects the team’s efforts to manage its roster for the upcoming season. Martin’s professional journey began with the Las Vegas Aces, where she was drafted 18th overall in 2024. She spent her rookie season with the Aces before being waived, leading to her selection by the Valkyries in the 2024 WNBA Expansion Draft.#south_carolina #los_angeles_sparks #golden_state_valkyries #kate_martin #raegan_pebley

ThreeBestRated® Honors Charleston Criminal Defense Attorney John W. Molony for Client-Centered Legal Advocacy CHARLESTON, SC, UNITED STATES — John W. Molony, a criminal defense attorney based in Charleston, South Carolina, has been recognized by ThreeBestRated® with the 2026 award for his dedication to personalized legal representation. The honor underscores his reputation for prioritizing client needs and delivering professional, responsive defense in complex legal matters. Molony’s practice focuses on criminal defense and DUI cases, addressing charges such as drug offenses, domestic violence, theft, white-collar crimes, and traffic violations across South Carolina. Molony’s approach to criminal defense emphasizes direct involvement with each client, a contrast to larger law firms where communication often relies on intermediaries. He personally handles cases from initial consultations through courtroom representation, ensuring clients receive tailored guidance during high-stakes legal processes. This hands-on strategy has become a hallmark of his practice, offering individuals facing criminal charges a sense of clarity and reassurance amid uncertainty. The attorney’s academic background includes a Bachelor of Arts in English and History from Clemson University, followed by a Juris Doctor from Mercer University’s Walter F. George School of Law.#south_carolina #clemson_university #charleston #threebestrated #john_w_molony

Midwestern State Leads Nation in Home Foreclosures as U.S. Filings Surge 26% Foreclosure filings in the U.S. rose by 26% compared to the previous year, with Midwestern states bearing the brunt of the crisis. In the first quarter of 2026, 118,727 properties faced foreclosure, marking a 6% increase from the prior quarter. Indiana emerged as the hardest-hit state, with one foreclosure filing for every 739 housing units, nearly two-thirds higher than the national average of one in every 1,211 homes. South Carolina and Florida followed closely, with foreclosure rates of 1 in 743 and 1 in 750, respectively. These states, all of which voted for Donald Trump in the 2024 election, now face mounting economic pressure as the 2026 midterm elections approach. The National Association of Home Builders’ CEO, Jim Tobin, highlighted that while falling rents offer temporary relief for struggling homeowners, purchasing a home remains the most reliable path to wealth accumulation. However, rising mortgage rates and inflation continue to strain homeowners. The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate climbed to 6.37% by mid-May 2026, up from 5.98% in late February. This increase, combined with higher living costs, has pushed monthly payments beyond the reach of many households. The data reveals a troubling trend: more homes are entering the foreclosure process. In the first quarter of 2026, 82,631 properties initiated foreclosure proceedings, a 20% rise from the previous year. Lenders repossessed 14,020 homes, a 45% annual increase. While these figures remain below the peak levels of the 2008 housing crisis, experts warn that the uptick signals growing financial distress among homeowners. Rob Barber, CEO of ATTOM, noted that the recent surge in foreclosures suggests more households are struggling to keep up with housing costs.#donald_trump #south_carolina #florida #indiana #midwestern_states

Ryan Ruffels betting profile: ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic Ryan Ruffels, the Australian golfer, is set to return to the ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic for the first time in five years. The tournament, scheduled to take place at Dunes Golf and Beach Club in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, will run from May 7 to May 10, 2026. This marks Ruffels’ reentry into the event after a five-year absence, with his latest participation expected to be a significant moment in his career. Ruffels’ recent performance metrics provide insight into his current form. Over the past five tournaments, he has averaged -0.273 Strokes Gained: Off-the-Tee, indicating a slight deficit compared to the field in terms of driving accuracy. His Approach the Green performance has also been a challenge, with an average of -0.212, suggesting struggles with iron play. Around-the-green performance shows a marginally better result at -0.102, while his putting average of -0.229 highlights ongoing difficulties with short game execution. Collectively, these stats result in a total Strokes Gained average of -0.817 over his last five starts, placing him in a competitive but challenging position heading into the tournament. The tournament’s recent history adds context to Ruffels’ participation. In 2025, Ryan Fox emerged as the winner, finishing at 15-under par. This victory underscores the high level of competition in the event, which likely influences Ruffels’ approach as he seeks to make an impact. While Fox’s performance sets a benchmark, Ruffels’ return to the field offers an opportunity to showcase his skills and potentially challenge for a top finish. Ruffels’ advanced statistics further illustrate his standing in the PGA Tour.#south_carolina #dunes_golf_and_beach_club #oneflight_myrtle_beach_classic #myrtle_beach #ryan_ruffels

South Carolina Women's Basketball Stars Shine on ESPN's WNBA Top 50 List ESPN released its list of the top 50 WNBA players on Thursday, with South Carolina women’s basketball alumna A’ja Wilson leading the ranking. The list was compiled by ESPN analysts Charlie Creme, Kendra Andrews, Kareem Copeland, and Hall of Famer Michael Voepel. No rookies were included in the final rankings. Wilson, who won the last two MVP awards and four of the past six, is the only four-time MVP in WNBA history. Her dominance was highlighted as the primary reason for her top spot, with analysts noting her unparalleled consistency and statistical dominance. Wilson’s college teammate Allisha Gray, who was named first-team All-WNBA for the first time last season, ranked seventh on the list. Gray averaged 18.4 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.5 assists in 2023, marking her best statistical season. Andrews explained Gray’s placement by emphasizing her career highs in points, rebounds, and assists. Aliyah Boston, another Gamecock, was ranked 14th. Boston, who recently signed the richest contract in WNBA history, was noted for her consistency over three All-Star seasons. Her 2023 season included 15.0 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 3.7 assists, with analysts highlighting her role as a facilitator during Indiana’s injury challenges. Kamilla Cardoso, the 2024 No. 3 overall WNBA draft pick, ranked 24th after a strong sophomore season. Cardoso averaged 13.6 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks, finishing fifth in the league in rebounds. Her performance was described as impressive enough to draw attention from the Chicago Sky, though the source does not specify any trades involving Angel Reese. Copeland noted Cardoso’s potential for growth, suggesting her third season could be even more impactful.#south_carolina #a_ja_wilson #aliyah_boston #allisha_gray #kamilla_cardoso

SC State Students Protest Evette Selection as Graduation Speaker South Carolina State University students have launched a protest against the selection of Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette as the commencement speaker for their graduation ceremony, citing her opposition to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. The controversy has sparked widespread debate, with over 2,000 signatures collected on a petition demanding her removal from the role. Students and alumni argue that Evette’s stance on DEI policies does not align with the values and experiences of the university’s predominantly Black student body. Evette, a Republican, has publicly defended her position, rejecting criticism as an attack on her efforts to address what she describes as “radical DEI scams” on college campuses. In a statement released on April 28, she dismissed the backlash as a result of her commitment to “eliminating woke ideologies,” claiming, “I must be doing something right because woke mobs are coming after me for being a champion of eliminating radical DEI scams on college campuses.” Her remarks have intensified the divide between her and the student community, who see her stance as a threat to institutional progress. Student leaders, including Zaria Tucker, president of South Carolina State’s Student Government Association, have framed the protest as a matter of representation rather than politics. In a Facebook post, Tucker emphasized that the graduation ceremony should reflect the voices and values of the students it honors. “At an HBCU, our legacy is rooted in advocacy, equity, and the power of our voices,” she wrote. “When decisions are made without us in moments that belong to us, it matters.#south_carolina #south_carolina_state_university #deon_tedder #pamela_evette #zaria_tucker

South Carolina Lt. Governor Addresses 'Woke Mob' Protests at HBCU South Carolina State University, the state’s sole public historically Black college and university (HBCU), is at the center of a heated controversy over Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette’s planned commencement address. The dispute erupted after students protested her selection to speak at the university’s spring graduation ceremony, which is scheduled for May 8. The backlash stems from Evette’s political stance and her public criticism of “woke” movements, which students argue clash with the institution’s mission. The protests began on Tuesday, with students gathering near the Donna Administration Building on the Orangeburg campus. They held signs and organized a sit-in, expressing frustration that Evette’s political views—particularly her alignment with conservative policies—do not align with the values of the HBCU. Multiple media outlets, including WIS, confirmed that Evette had been selected to deliver the commencement speech, while her office emphasized her honor in accepting the invitation. However, SC State officials later clarified that the speaker had not yet been officially confirmed, and student leaders were informed of the plan despite the lack of a public announcement. The controversy has intensified as Evette continues her campaign for governor. As a Republican, she serves under Gov. Henry McMaster and has positioned herself as a champion of conservative policies. For many students, the issue transcends party politics. The debate centers on the symbolic weight of the commencement ceremony, a pivotal moment for graduates. South Carolina State, with its deep historical ties to Black education and leadership, sees the event as more than a speaking engagement—it is a platform for values and identity.#south_carolina #south_carolina_state_university #pamela_evette #zaria_tucker #orangeburg

Indiana Fever Select Raven Johnson in First Round of 2026 WNBA Draft The Indiana Fever officially selected South Carolina guard Raven Johnson with the 10th overall pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft, marking a strategic move to bolster their roster with a versatile and experienced point guard. Johnson, a 5-foot-9 player, concluded her collegiate career at South Carolina with a 145-9 record, showcasing her leadership and skill across multiple levels of competition. Her selection highlights the Fever’s focus on acquiring a defensive anchor capable of making an immediate impact in the league. Johnson’s collegiate performance was standout, as she averaged 9.9 points, 5.1 assists, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.5 steals per game during her senior season. Her ability to control the tempo of the game and elevate her team’s defense earned her the SEC Defensive Player of the Year award. Her shooting efficiency further underscores her value, with a 48.6% field goal percentage, 39.8% three-point accuracy, and an impressive 82% free-throw shooting rate. These numbers reflect her reliability in high-pressure situations, a trait that aligns with the Fever’s need for a player who can thrive in critical moments. Fever head coach Stephanie White praised Johnson’s readiness for the WNBA, emphasizing her experience in big-game scenarios. “She’s a winner,” White said during a press conference at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. “She’s won at every level, set the tone at every level. She’s immediately ready on the defensive end, which is something we need. She’s been a true point guard, and she’s experienced in big game moments.” White’s comments underscore the Fever’s belief that Johnson’s defensive versatility and playmaking ability will complement their existing roster.#south_carolina #dawn_staley #indiana_fever #raven_johnson #stephanie_white

NCAA Women's Tournament Final: South Carolina and UCLA Clash for Championship Title The NCAA women’s basketball tournament reached its pinnacle as No. 1 seed UCLA faced No. 1 seed South Carolina in the championship game, a matchup that promised to determine the season’s top team. The Gamecocks, led by coach Dawn Staley, sought their fourth national title under her leadership, while the Bruins, making their first title game appearance, aimed to end a 16-year championship drought. The game, broadcast live, carried significant weight for both programs, with Staley and UCLA coach Cori Close reflecting on their journeys to the final. From the opening moments, the physicality of the contest was evident. UCLA’s star center, Lauren Betts, found herself challenged by South Carolina’s Madina Okot, who aggressively contested her positioning. Officials’ calls would play a critical role in shaping the game’s flow, as Okot’s foul trouble could disrupt South Carolina’s defensive strategy. The early minutes set the tone for a tightly contested battle, with both teams showcasing their depth and resilience. For UCLA, the path to the championship was marked by a blend of experience and youthful energy. Coach Close, who had guided the Bruins to the Final Four for the second consecutive year, relied on a core of seven players, six of whom were seniors or graduate students. The team’s senior leadership, led by Betts, was complemented by the presence of Betts’ younger sister, Sienna, a freshman making her debut in the tournament. Betts expressed pride in Sienna’s ability to carry the legacy of the program, stating, “I can’t wait to see how she continues this legacy at UCLA. I’m just so proud of her.” The Final Four field highlighted the growing presence of women coaches in the sport.#ucla #south_carolina #dawn_staley #ncaa_womens_tournament #cori_close

UCLA and South Carolina Set for March Madness National Championship Clash The women’s NCAA Tournament will culminate in a high-stakes national championship matchup as No. 1 seed UCLA faces No. 1 seed South Carolina on April 5, 2026. The game, scheduled for 3:30 p.m. Eastern Time at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona, will be broadcast live on ABC and ESPN, with streaming options available via Fubo. This showdown marks a pivotal moment in the 68-team tournament, with both teams vying for their first title since 2017 for South Carolina and their first championship since 2023 for UCLA. South Carolina, the defending national champions, entered the tournament with a strong record, having advanced through the Round of 62 by defeating No. 16 Southern 103-34, followed by a dominant Round of 32 victory over No. 9 USC 101-61. In the Sweet 16, they edged No. 4 Oklahoma 94-68 before advancing to the Elite Eight with a 78-52 win against No. 3 TCU. Their Final Four appearance saw them overcome No. 1 UConn 62-48, setting the stage for their first national championship since 2017. UCLA, meanwhile, has been a powerhouse throughout the tournament. The Bruins began with a 96-43 rout of No. 16 CA Baptist in the Round of 62, then defeated No. 8 Oklahoma State 87-68 in the Round of 32. They advanced to the Sweet 16 with a 80-56 win over No. 4 Minnesota, followed by a 70-58 Elite Eight victory against No. 3 Duke. UCLA’s Final Four run included a 51-44 triumph over No. 1 Texas, positioning them as the top seed for the championship. The national championship game will be the culmination of a grueling tournament path for both teams.#ucla #south_carolina #phoenix #mortgage_matchup_center #usa_today_sports

UCLA Entering NCAA Title Game with 'Businesslike' Mindset PHOENIX — UCLA’s journey to its first NCAA championship game has been marked by a shift in mindset, as head coach Cori Close emphasized a strategic, focused approach to the final showdown against South Carolina. The Bruins, making their debut in the national title game, have drawn on lessons from their 2023 Final Four run, where they fell in the semifinals. Close described the team’s current preparation as a stark contrast to last year’s experience, highlighting how the team’s maturity and planning have evolved. The 2024 season has been a transformative chapter for UCLA, with the Bruins advancing to the title game after a 51-44 victory over Texas in the semifinals. Close noted that the team’s approach this year has been fundamentally different from the previous year, when they were “reacting to everything” rather than anticipating challenges. “Last year, we were reacting to everything, not anticipating,” she said during a press conference. “Whereas now that we have been a part of this, it just was a totally different planning experience. I just felt like we were able to be more strategic in how we put our players in position to be successful.” The Bruins’ preparation has also been influenced by the experiences of returning players from the 2023 Final Four. Close mentioned that several veterans shared insights with newer team members, helping to shape the team’s mindset. “That makes all the difference in the world,” she said, underscoring the value of mentorship and continuity. South Carolina, the Bruins’ title game opponent, presents a formidable challenge. The Gamecocks have made six consecutive Final Four appearances and are set to play in their fourth national title game.#ucla #south_carolina #gamecocks #cori_close #gabriela_jaquez

Motorcyclist Dies After Hitting Tree in Travelers Rest A motorcyclist died following a crash on Thursday night in Travelers Rest, South Carolina, according to the South Carolina Highway Patrol. The incident occurred on Tubbs Mountain Road near Upcountry Lane around 9:50 p.m. Officials reported that the rider lost control of their motorcycle and veered off the right side of the road, striking a tree. The Greenville County Coroner’s Office confirmed the identity of the deceased as 45-year-old Brian Doyle Medlin. Authorities have not yet released additional details about the circumstances of the crash or the condition of the motorcycle. Further updates are pending as investigators continue their review of the incident. No other individuals were reported to be involved in the crash. The Highway Patrol urged drivers to exercise caution in the area, particularly during nighttime hours, and to report any traffic incidents promptly. The incident highlights the dangers of riding motorcycles, especially in rural areas where road conditions and visibility can pose risks. Local officials have previously emphasized the importance of wearing helmets and adhering to traffic laws to reduce the likelihood of severe injuries or fatalities. Emergency responders arrived at the scene shortly after the crash, but Medlin was pronounced dead at the location. The coroner’s office is expected to conduct a full examination to determine the cause of death and any contributing factors. This tragedy underscores the need for heightened awareness among motorcyclists and drivers alike. Authorities are working to gather more information and will provide further details as they become available.#south_carolina #travelers_rest #south_carolina_highway_patrol #greenville_county_coroner_s_office #tubbs_mountain_road

Columbia Car Accident Attorneys Help Victims Navigate Legal Process Car accidents often leave victims grappling with physical, emotional, and financial challenges. From severe injuries to long-term medical care and lost income, individuals involved in crashes may struggle to understand their legal options. McWhirter, Bellinger & Associates, Attorneys at Law, a Columbia-based law firm, specializes in representing accident victims to recover damages and clarify how their claims are assessed. The firm emphasizes the importance of legal guidance in securing fair compensation and protecting victims’ rights. Auto accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, including fractures, herniated discs, concussions, burns, and in severe cases, spinal cord injuries or traumatic brain injuries. Some injuries may initially seem minor but can worsen over time as symptoms develop. These conditions often impact a person’s ability to work and maintain daily routines, making it essential to evaluate claims beyond immediate medical costs. Legal professionals at McWhirter, Bellinger & Associates work to ensure victims receive comprehensive support, addressing both short-term and long-term consequences of their injuries. The value of a car accident claim depends on several factors, including medical expenses, future care needs, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. Attorneys at the firm assess each case by gathering evidence such as medical records, financial documentation, and insurance policies. They also consider the long-term impact of injuries, ensuring that compensation reflects both tangible and intangible losses. South Carolina law guides these evaluations, requiring thorough documentation to support claims for fair compensation.#south_carolina #mcwhirter_bellinger_associates #columbia #car_accident #attorney