On Friday night, No. 1-seed South Carolina survived against No. 4-seed Maryland, 71-67, to advance out of the Sweet 16 and into the Elite Eight. The victory was spurred by a showing-stopping behind-the-back score from MiLaysia Fulwiley, and secured by the team’s “unshakable” and “unflappable” spirit, according to head coach Dawn Staley.

Swish Appeal’s contributing photographer Christina Merrion, who also is one of Staley’s favorite photographers, was in Birmingham to capture the Gamecocks’ big win.

Rallying her players before the game, South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley is taking her team the Elite Eight for the eighth time.
Christina Merrion.

Friday’s game was the 12th Sweet 16 for Maryland under head coach Brenda Frese.
Christina Merrion.

Tessa Johnson is all smiles when warming up for South Carolina’s Sweet 16 showdown.
Christina Merrion.

South Carolina’s MiLaysia Fulwiley not only had the highlight of the Sweet 16, but also the best kicks, debuting her “Butta” player-edition colorway of her Curry Brand shoes.
Christina Merrion.

In her final game for Maryland, Shyanne Sellers finished with 10 points, seven rebounds and five assists.
Christina Merrion.

South Carolina’s Sania Feagin, who scored seven points and grabbed five boards, celebrates a tough finish.
Christina Merrion.

Kaylene Smikle closed out her first season in a Maryland uniform with 17 points, five rebounds and three assists.
Christina Merrion.

Chloe Kitts once again stuffed the box score for South Carolina, recording a 15-point and 11-rebound double-double.
Christina Merrion.

MiLaysia Fulwiley, who scored a game-high 23 points, iced South Carolina’s Sweet 16 win at the free throw line.
Christina Merrion.


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