Top-ranked South Carolina will take on No. 9 NC State in Charlotte in one of the season’s first big tests in women’s college basketball. The Gamecocks enter the matchup off a dominant 2023-24 campaign with an undefeated season and national championship. Head coach Dawn Staley guides a mix of experience and new talent in this new season. Veteran leaders like Raven Johnson and Te-Hina Paopao are expected to impact both ends of the game.

NC State, led by head coach Wes Moore, finished 31-7 last season and reached the Final Four, falling to these Gamecocks. The Wolfpack return with key players such as senior guard Aziaha James, a consistent scorer and defender, who is expected to take on an expanded role this season.

The Gamecocks are known for their fast-paced offense and strong defense, holding opponents to low shooting percentages. NC State ranked in the top 10 for a reason and brings a balanced attack and a solid defensive unit that could challenge South Carolina’s scoring depth. This early showdown provides both teams with a valuable test and could implicate the national rankings going forward.

In the first Associated Press Top 25 poll of the season, South Carolina opened No. 1 ranking, a position it has held consistently in recent years. Under coach Dawn Staley, the Gamecocks are coming off an undefeated national championship season. NC State enters the matchup ranked No. 9.

Last season, the Gamecocks topped the Wolfpack 78-59 in the Final Four.

Here’s the complete AP Top 25 rankings: