Biden Celebrates 2024 NCAA Champs South Carolina and UConn at White House
- President Joe Biden will host separate ceremonies for the 2024 NCAA basketball champions, South Carolina and Connecticut, at the White House.
- South Carolina achieved a historic 38-0 record, while UConn secured their sixth national title with a 37-3 record.
- This event marks South Carolina's first White House visit, celebrating their significant achievements in women's basketball.
On Tuesday, President Joe Biden will honor the 2024 NCAA basketball champions, South Carolina and Connecticut, with separate ceremonies at the White House. South Carolina achieved an impressive 38-0 record, marking a historic season as they became only the fifth women's program in NCAA history to go undefeated. Under the leadership of head coach Dawn Staley, this victory represents her third championship with the Gamecocks since 2017, showcasing their dominance in scoring defense and blocked shots throughout the season. Meanwhile, UConn's men's team, coached by Dan Hurley, secured their second consecutive title with a 37-3 record, making it the school's sixth national championship. This achievement places UConn among an elite group of teams that have successfully repeated as champions, joining the ranks of the 2006-07 Florida Gators and the 1991-92 Duke Blue Devils. The significance of this win is underscored by the rarity of back-to-back championships in NCAA history. This event marks the first visit to the White House for the South Carolina team, as they did not attend following their previous championships in 2017 and 2022. Vice President Kamala Harris had previously met with the team during her visit to Columbia, South Carolina, earlier this year, highlighting the ongoing recognition of their achievements. The celebrations at the White House not only honor the athletic accomplishments of these teams but also serve to inspire future generations of athletes, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and excellence in sports.