The bad blood between UConn and South Carolina isn't going to keep these two powerhouse programs off the court. Months after a heated Final Four showdown that saw coaches Geno Auriemma and Dawn Staley exchange words, the Huskies and Gamecocks are set for a highly anticipated rematch.

The Basketball Hall of Fame announced Tuesday that the two teams will meet on Nov. 24 as part of its Women's Showcase double-header at Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Connecticut. While the venue is technically neutral, UConn will enjoy a significant home-court advantage—it's just 30 miles from their Storrs campus. The event also features national champion UCLA taking on St. John's.

This early-season showdown packs serious weight for the 2026-27 calendar. It's less than eight months since South Carolina stunned previously undefeated UConn in the national semifinals, handing the Huskies their first loss and ending their bid for a second straight NCAA title.

But the game itself wasn't the only headline. Auriemma's postgame confrontation with Staley quickly stole the spotlight. Instead of the usual congratulations, Auriemma approached Staley in the handshake line and "said what I had to say," sparking a tense exchange that ended with his coaching staff pulling him away.

In his postgame press conference, Auriemma claimed he was upset that Staley didn't shake his hand before the game. Video evidence showed they did shake hands, but Auriemma clarified he was bothered that a second handshake didn't happen just before tip-off. The next day, he apologized, calling his reaction "uncalled for"—though he didn't include Staley in that apology.

For fans of women's basketball, this rematch is more than just another game. It's a chance to see two of the sport's most decorated programs go head-to-head early in the season, with all the emotion and intensity that made their last meeting unforgettable. Whether you're repping UConn blue or South Carolina garnet, mark your calendars—this one's going to be electric.