TAMPA, Fla. -- Ahead of a highly anticipated national championship clash, South Carolina's head coach Dawn Staley voiced her frustration over the overwhelming narrative surrounding UConn's star guard, Paige Bueckers. As Bueckers prepares for her final shot at a national title with the Huskies, Staley believes the focus has been skewed away from the remarkable achievements of her own players.

The Gamecocks are set to defend their title against UConn, having previously suffered a significant loss to the Huskies earlier this season. As Bueckers, who's determined to make her mark on the game, strives for her first national championship, the stakes couldn't be higher.

Staley was questioned about whether Bueckers needs a national title to solidify her legacy as one of the game's all-time greats. This inquiry echoed past sentiments regarding Caitlin Clark, who faced Staley's Gamecocks in last year's championship game. In that matchup, South Carolina triumphed over Iowa 87-75, concluding an undefeated season at 38-0.

"We often fall into the trap of creating narratives around outstanding players -- whether it's Caitlin or Paige -- and forget to highlight what our players have accomplished, aiming for their third title in four years," Staley asserted. "There's a sentimental narrative surrounding Paige. She's an incredible player; any franchise would be honored to start with her as their cornerstone. However, this narrative affects how people perceive the teams and, indirectly, the officials as well. It’s everywhere — on social media, news outlets, you name it."

Staley expressed her desire for the spotlight to equally shine on both Bueckers and her Gamecocks as they approach the decisive game. UConn hasn’t captured a championship since 2016 and lost to South Carolina in the previous year’s final, where Bueckers contributed significantly with 14 points.

"Paige is undoubtedly a great athlete, but her legacy doesn’t hinge solely on winning a national championship. Her career is already legendary, and her influence at UConn is undeniable whether or not she gets that title," Staley explained. "We faced similar circumstances last season with Caitlin Clark; everyone focused on her rankings while we were busy making history with an undefeated season."

While South Carolina may not be heading into the championship undefeated, the resilience of the Gamecocks shone through as they navigated three losses during the regular season, including a staggering 87-58 defeat against UConn that halted their 71-game home winning streak.

Reflecting on that previous encounter, player Te-Hina Paopao noted the team’s determination to learn from their mistakes: "That game was embarrassing for us, but we used it as a lesson to come back stronger. We’re a different team now, and it’s time to prove that on the court tomorrow."

The Gamecocks have a golden opportunity to capture back-to-back championships, with several players poised to claim their third title in four years. This group, featuring stars like Sania Feagin, Raven Johnson, and Bree Hall, is eager to etch their names in history.

Staley emphasized the importance of celebrating both Bueckers' talents and her team's journey. "Let’s highlight our players and their achievements as well as recognize Paige. There's ample space in women's basketball for everyone’s stories to be told. It’s not just about elevating one athlete’s legacy; it's about appreciating the contributions of every program and player that shapes this sport."

With emotions running high and their ambitions at stake, this championship match promises to be a thrilling showcase of talent and determination as both teams vie for greatness.