South Carolina Faces Tennessee Tech in NCAA Tournament Rematch, Echoes of 1989 Upset Resurface
Columbia, S.C. – The NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament is set to feature a compelling clash between the top-seeded South Carolina Gamecocks and the No. 16 seed Tennessee Tech Golden Eagles. This matchup isn’t just another first-round game; it’s a revisit of a stunning upset that occurred 36 years ago, adding a layer of historical intrigue to the present-day contest.
The memory of the 1989 tournament, where 11th-seeded Tennessee Tech shocked No. 6 South Carolina with a 77-73 victory, hangs in the air as the two teams prepare to face off once again. Despite the passage of time, the echoes of that improbable win resonate, particularly within the Tennessee Tech community.
When asked about the possibility of discussing the 1989 game with her players, South Carolina’s head coach Dawn Staley offered a humorous yet firm response, stating, "Child, I didn’t talk about that." Her reluctance to dwell on the past suggests a focus on the present, emphasizing the strength and capabilities of her current squad.
While Coach Staley might not be highlighting the historical upset, the players from Tennessee Tech are aware of it. "Obviously, there’s been some articles," said sophomore guard Reghan Grimes. "Other people in the Cookeville community that have been around forever have been like, ‘It’s happened before.’" The legacy of that victory continues to linger, serving as a reminder that anything is possible in the unpredictable world of March Madness.
Tennessee Tech’s media notes for Friday’s first-round game against the Gamecocks include a copy of the original box score from the 1989 upset. This deliberate inclusion underscores the significance of the past and serves as a tangible connection to the program’s history.
In 1989, South Carolina entered the tournament on a nine-game winning streak and was led by Beth Hunt, who recorded a double-double with 31 points and 12 rebounds in the loss. Despite Hunt’s impressive performance, Tennessee Tech rallied from behind, overcoming a deficit to secure the victory. With nine minutes remaining in the game, Renay Adams broke a tie with a crucial 3-pointer. The teams then engaged in a back-and-forth battle until the final seconds, where the Golden Eagles capitalized on free-throw opportunities to seal the upset.
Now, as the underdogs once again, the Golden Eagles are approaching Friday’s game with a dual focus on physical and mental preparation. Tennessee Tech is currently riding a 17-game winning streak, demonstrating their ability to perform consistently at a high level.
Following their last loss on January 9, head coach Kim Rosamond introduced a new element to the team’s strategy by assigning the book "The Obstacle Is The Way" to the entire team, including assistant coaches and team managers. The book’s core concept revolves around using adversity as a catalyst for growth, a philosophy that aligns perfectly with the challenges of competing in a high-stakes tournament environment.
"That is part of who our program is, part of who we are," Rosamond said. "Obviously, we get to teach basketball. But most of all, we get to teach life lessons through basketball." The emphasis on personal development beyond the court highlights Rosamond’s holistic approach to coaching, recognizing the importance of character building alongside athletic skill.
Reghan Grimes, a key player for the Golden Eagles, carries a copy of the book with her, complete with a personalized note from Coach Rosamond inscribed inside the front cover, as well as tabs marking key passages. "The book is about ‘making obstacles our superpower,’" Grimes explained. "Your mindset is like, ‘Oh, this is an obstacle.’ (The book is about) changing your mindset from that to, ‘This might be a little bump in the road, but how do we get through it?’"
The Golden Eagles have already demonstrated their resilience and ability to overcome obstacles, both on and off the court. Their current winning streak is a testament to their determination and cohesiveness as a team.
The prospect of facing South Carolina presents another significant hurdle for Tennessee Tech. The Gamecocks, known for their dominant play and unwavering intensity, will undoubtedly pose a formidable challenge. Yet, the Golden Eagles are embracing the opportunity and preparing to give their best effort.
The colors of the opposition, black and garnet, serve as a visual reminder of the challenge ahead. As Tennessee Tech takes the court, they will carry with them the memory of the 1989 upset, the lessons learned from "The Obstacle Is The Way," and the unwavering support of their community. They will be ready to face a difficult obstacle with the spirit and tenacity that defines their program.
The game is more than just a basketball game; it is a chance for a team to test itself, overcome adversity, and solidify its place in program history. It will be a chance to add to the ongoing story of Tennessee Tech basketball and show the nation what they are capable of.
