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Category: South Carolina Gamecocks

  • South Carolina Gamecocks overpower Florida Gators in 101-63 win

    In a dazzling display of dominance, the South Carolina Gamecocks crushed the Florida

    In a dazzling display of dominance, the South Carolina Gamecocks crushed the Florida Gators 101-63 in a one-sided affair. This victory boosts South Carolina’s impressive record to 23-2 for the season, while Florida slides to 12-13.

    The Gamecocks were in full offensive form, shooting 46.2% from the field (36-78) and 32.0% from beyond the arc (8-25). However, it was their near-perfect free throw shooting that stood out, sinking 21 of 22 attempts for a stellar 95.5%, while Florida managed just 66.7% from the charity stripe (14-21).

    Joyce Edwards delivered a career-high performance with 28 points, surpassing her previous best of 21, set against Alabama in January. Her outstanding contribution was a key factor in South Carolina’s overwhelming victory.

    On the boards, the Gamecocks completely dominated, pulling down 51 total rebounds, including 17 offensive and 34 defensive. In contrast, Florida managed just 37 rebounds. South Carolina’s ball movement was also top-notch, dishing out 23 assists to Florida’s 11.

    Defensively, the Gamecocks overwhelmed the Gators with 12 steals and 3 blocks, converting those turnovers into 24 points. Florida struggled with ball control, turning the ball over 17 times, while South Carolina committed only 6 turnovers.

    Fast breaks were another area where the Gamecocks excelled, scoring 8 points off transition plays, matching Florida’s fast break output. Dominating the paint, South Carolina outscored the Gators 52-28 inside.

    Foul trouble wasn’t a significant factor in the game, as South Carolina committed 15 fouls and Florida 17, with no technical fouls called.

    The Gamecocks’ commanding lead grew to as much as 41 points, further cementing their place as one of the nation’s premier teams.

    More news…..

    South Carolina Extends Offer to In-State Wide Receiver Star

    Jaiden Kelly-Murray

    South Carolina football arguably secured its best-ever wide receiver recruiting class in the 2025 cycle. The Gamecocks are bringing in six skilled receivers, including five 4-star recruits, with four hailing from South Carolina.

    Malik Clark, Jordon Gidron, Donovan Murph, and Jayden Sellers will represent their home state for the first time this fall, and all four have promising futures at USC.

    It seems that wide receivers coach Mike Furrey is eyeing another strong in-state group for the 2027 class. USC has already extended offers to Ridge View wideout Khristian Jackson and Indian Land athlete Sequel Patterson (who also plays receiver). On Tuesday, a third 2027 receiver, Jaiden Kelly-Murray, announced via social media that he had received an offer from the Gamecocks.

    Currently unranked, Kelly-Murray is unlikely to stay that way for long. The Summerville product had a standout sophomore season, racking up over 1200 yards receiving and delivering a notable performance in the state championship game against the elite Dutch Fork team.

    His offer list is expanding, with South Carolina being one of six current Power Four offers. Additionally, MaxPreps named Kelly-Murray a Sophomore All-American.

    A smaller receiver, Kelly-Murray’s strength lies in his route-running and agility. His impressive shake-and-release techniques make him a tough matchup against man coverage.

    Summerville uses him in the quick game and as a rusher, both on jet sweeps and as a wildcat quarterback. He excels with his speed and vision, gaining significant yardage after the catch. Despite his size, Kelly-Murray runs with more power than expected and often makes his biggest plays across the middle.

    In addition to his offensive role, Kelly-Murray also plays some free safety for Summerville, but his future is most likely at receiver.

  • Why Dawn Staley Refers to Star Guard Te-Hina Paopao as an ‘Elevator’

    Te-Hina Paopao

    Following a 66-62 loss to Texas on Sunday, Paopao made a bold statement, promising that future teams facing South Carolina women’s basketball will have a tough time. She also acknowledged that she needed to step up as a better leader.

    Fast forward to Thursday, Paopao was in a rhythm from the start. As the ball left her hands at Colonial Life Arena, the crowd was already on its feet in anticipation. There was no hesitation in her game. She was fluid, confident, and finished the first quarter with 11 points.

    The No. 4-ranked Gamecocks (23-2, 11-1 SEC) delivered on Paopao’s promise, dominating Florida with a 101-63 victory.

    Paopao wrapped up the game with 14 points, seven assists, and seven rebounds, playing just 20 minutes in the matchup against the Gators (12-13, 3-8).

    South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley praised Paopao’s influence on the team, saying, “She’s an elevator, she elevates our team.” Staley explained, “When Pao hits a 3-pointer, it allows all of us to exhale because she’s been that potent for us from an offensive standpoint. In the Texas game, we were kind of willing her shots to go in because we know what that means.”

    In her second year at South Carolina after transferring from Oregon, Paopao has evolved into a more complete player, not just relying on her stellar 3-point shooting but also adding layups and mid-range jumpers to her game, adapting to what the defense offers her.

    Te-Hina Paopao

    Her focus is clear: Paopao just wants to win. And under Coach Staley’s guidance, she’s only tasted defeat twice at South Carolina—both losses, according to Staley, “surely didn’t feel good.” As Paopao nears the end of her college career, Staley sees a player who’s giving her all in every game.

    The Gamecocks’ offensive success early on was sparked by Paopao. She opened the scoring with a quick three-pointer, and then contributed to 15 of the next 17 points—either scoring or assisting.

    Aware that sophomore guard MiLaysia Fulwiley thrives in transition, Paopao demonstrated her awareness, chasing down a long rebound with 3:54 left in the first quarter. Seeing Fulwiley sprinting behind the defense, Paopao delivered a perfectly timed pass that led to a slick finish by Fulwiley.

    “She’s a playmaker,” Staley said of Paopao. “We want the ball in her hands, we want her coming off screens, we want her playmaking for us along with putting the ball in the hole, especially outside the 3-point line, also just facilitating. Paopao just took more of an effort to playmake today and we need that.”

  • Dawn Staley Explains Why She Was Shaken After South Carolina’s Loss to Texas

    Dawn Staley Explains Why She Was Shaken After South Carolina's Loss to Texas

    In a live update from South Carolina, Gamecocks head coach Dawn Staley opened up about her team’s mindset following their recent defeat to Texas.

    It’s rare for Staley’s teams to face back-to-back losses in a season. Just last year, the South Carolina Gamecocks went an undefeated 38-0, clinching the 2024 NCAA National Championship. The previous season, Staley’s squad was perfect at 36-0 until they were eliminated in the Final Four by Caitlin Clark and the Iowa Hawkeyes.

    Now, in the 2024-25 season, the Gamecocks have already suffered two losses, with their most recent setback coming on February 9 against the Texas Longhorns.

    Staley took a moment to reflect on her emotions and thoughts after the defeat during a media session following a February 12 practice.

    “It shakes you a little bit because it’s so unfamiliar. So you think about where you need to improve,” Staley remarked, as shared by Matt Dowell from WACH Fox on X. “Most times when we’ve lost, it’s more like an anomaly. Like ‘What the heck?’ That wasn’t us. That wasn’t our defense, that wasn’t our offense. More times than not, it was the opponent that did something to us.”

    However, Staley also acknowledged the role of self-inflicted mistakes, noting, “And then some of it is self-inflicted, as well. So we’ve got to figure out what’s self-inflicted, what the opponent forced us to do, what’s the anomaly of it, and then try to fix it all at once.”

    Staley wrapped up her comments with a hopeful note: “I think for us, we just need to get confident in doing things the way we need to do things.”

    As the Gamecocks prepare for their next challenge against the Florida Gators on February 13, all eyes will be on how South Carolina regains its rhythm and responds to the adversity.

    Previous news….

    Brady Hunt Rejoins Garnet Trust, confirming his return to South Carolina Football

    Brady Hunt

    In a significant development for South Carolina football, Brady Hunt, a 6-foot-5, 253-pound tight end, has signed a new NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deal with the Gamecocks’ official collective, The Garnet Trust, ensuring his return to the program for the upcoming season.

    Hunt, who transferred to South Carolina from Ball State last offseason, was part of the Gamecocks’ three-man tight end rotation in 2024 alongside Joshua Simon and Michael Smith. He made valuable contributions during the season, recording two receptions for 22 yards, including a key first-down grab late in the victory over Missouri. Known for his versatility both as a blocker and a receiver, Hunt is expected to take on an even larger role next season, especially with Simon having exhausted his eligibility.

    Before joining South Carolina, Hunt had an impressive 2022 season at Ball State, where he caught 46 passes for 498 yards and five touchdowns. His strong performance at Ball State and subsequent transfer to the Gamecocks highlight his potential to become a key player in South Carolina’s offensive game plan.

    This new NIL deal underscores the Gamecocks’ commitment to player retention, with The Garnet Trust playing a crucial role in securing such agreements. Retaining players like Hunt is essential for the program’s continued success, and head coach Shane Beamer has stressed the importance of building strong relationships and maintaining open communication to keep the team unified and motivated.

  • Florida Women’s Basketball Prepares to Take on No. 4 South Carolina

    Florida women’s basketball prepares to face off against No. 4 South

    Florida women’s basketball prepares to face off against No. 4 South Carolina on Thursday night in Columbia. Both teams are coming off tough losses and are aiming to bounce back and regain their momentum.

    The Gamecocks currently hold the upper hand in their all-time series with Florida, leading 22-20 and riding a 16-game win streak over the Gators. Florida (12-12, 3-7 SEC) has not been able to defeat South Carolina under head coach Kelly Rae Finley.

    Looking Back at Recent Losses

    South Carolina (22-2, 10-1) comes into this matchup following a heartbreaker against No. 3 Texas on Sunday. The Longhorns edged out the Gamecocks 66-62, snapping South Carolina’s 57-game SEC regular-season win streak that had dated back to the 2021-22 season. Texas led throughout, preventing the Gamecocks from leaving Austin with a win.

    Meanwhile, Florida’s recent loss came against No. 23 Alabama on Thursday. The Gators fought hard in the first half, entering halftime just five points behind after a 17-17 tie in the first quarter. However, Alabama pulled away in the final period, with Aaliyah Nye of Alabama scoring 27 points, setting both a school record and a career-high with nine 3-pointers.

    Thursday Night Showdown

    Looking ahead to Thursday’s game, Florida will need to capitalize on opportunities at the free-throw line. South Carolina committed 20 personal fouls against Texas, and Florida’s free-throw shooting has been strong, setting a season-best 85.7% against Alabama. If the Gamecocks commit similar fouls on Thursday, Florida will have a chance to take advantage and score easily from the line.

    The Gators also need to be wary of South Carolina’s MiLaysia Fulwiley, the sophomore guard who has led the Gamecocks in scoring for two consecutive games, putting up 13 points against Texas.

    However, Florida has a rising star in freshman Liv McGill, who averages 16.4 points per game. McGill was pivotal in Florida’s offensive push against Alabama, contributing 22 points—marking her tenth game with over 20 points this season.

    On the defensive side, the Gamecocks will need to keep an eye on Florida’s Jeriah Warren. The senior guard had a standout performance against Alabama, securing 10 rebounds—her second time this season achieving double digits in rebounds.

    Game Details

    The Gators will take on the Gamecocks at Colonial Life Arena, with the game set to tip off at 7 p.m. For fans looking to tune in, the game will be streamed on the SEC Network and can be heard on ESPN 98.1-FM/850-AM WRUF, starting at 6:40 p.m.

    Stay tuned for more updates as we head into what promises to be an exciting showdown between two hungry teams!

  • Four-Star RB Jaylen McGill Reopens Recruitment: Implications for South Carolina

    Jaylen McGill

    Four-Star RB Jaylen McGill Decommits from Rutgers: What It Means for South Carolina

    In a significant shift in the recruiting landscape, four-star running back Jaylen McGill has announced his decommitment from Rutgers University. The highly touted recruit from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, has made waves in the college football world, and this move opens up new possibilities for South Carolina’s football program. McGill, a standout player at West Catholic Preparatory High School, has been regarded as one of the top running back prospects in the nation. His decision to reconsider his commitment is a pivotal moment, not only for Rutgers but also for the South Carolina Gamecocks, who now find themselves in the race for his services.

    Who is Jaylen McGill?

    Jaylen McGill is a versatile, explosive running back who possesses a unique combination of speed, power, and agility. Standing at 5-foot-11 and weighing 200 pounds, McGill has the ideal size and athleticism for the modern college football running back. He is known for his ability to break tackles, accelerate quickly, and create big plays, both as a rusher and a pass-catcher out of the backfield.

    During his high school career at West Catholic Preparatory, McGill became a star, earning recognition for his performances on the field. In his senior year, he rushed for over 1,500 yards and 20 touchdowns while also contributing as a receiver with impressive yardage and scores. His all-around skills and playmaking ability quickly made him a highly sought-after recruit.

    The Decommitment: A Major Shift

    McGill’s decommitment from Rutgers comes as a surprise to many, considering he had been firmly committed to the Scarlet Knights since late 2023. Rutgers, under head coach Greg Schiano, had been one of the first programs to offer McGill, and he had grown close to the coaching staff during his recruitment. His commitment to Rutgers was seen as a major victory for the program, as it demonstrated their ability to recruit top-tier talent from the Northeast.

    However, McGill’s decision to back out of his commitment has left Rutgers with a void to fill in their 2024 recruiting class. The reasons behind McGill’s decommitment are still unclear, but it’s not uncommon for high-profile recruits to reevaluate their options as the recruiting cycle progresses, especially with the growing influence of the transfer portal and the shifting dynamics in college football.

    What Does This Mean for South Carolina?

    For South Carolina, McGill’s decommitment from Rutgers presents a golden opportunity to land a player who could make an immediate impact on their roster. The Gamecocks, led by head coach Shane Beamer, have made significant strides in recent years, with a focus on building a competitive program in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). South Carolina is known for its strong running game and physical style of play, and adding a dynamic running back like McGill would elevate their offensive capabilities.

    South Carolina has been actively pursuing McGill for months, and the decommitment from Rutgers could open the door for the Gamecocks to intensify their recruitment. McGill is known to have a strong relationship with the coaching staff at South Carolina, and the Gamecocks’ style of play and facilities could be a big draw for him. Additionally, the opportunity to compete in the SEC, widely regarded as the premier conference in college football, could be a major factor in his decision-making process.

    The Recruiting Landscape: How South Carolina Stacks Up

    South Carolina’s recruitment of McGill is far from a guarantee, as the decommitment has attracted attention from several other programs. The Gamecocks are not the only team hoping to land the four-star running back, as several other schools, including ACC and Big Ten programs, are expected to make strong pushes to secure McGill’s commitment.

    In particular, programs like the University of Michigan, Penn State, and Auburn have all been linked to McGill, with each program offering a unique opportunity for his future development. With his skill set, McGill is a prime target for any team looking to improve their running back room, and the competition for his services will be fierce.

    However, South Carolina’s appeal lies in its developing program and strong recruiting efforts. With Shane Beamer at the helm, the Gamecocks have made a name for themselves as a rising contender in the SEC, and the chance to be part of that growth could be very enticing for McGill. The coaching staff’s emphasis on player development and their proven ability to utilize running backs effectively in their offensive scheme may be exactly what McGill is looking for.

    What Could McGill Bring to South Carolina?

    If McGill were to commit to South Carolina, his immediate impact could be felt in multiple areas. The Gamecocks have a talented, yet young, roster, and McGill would bring an added layer of explosiveness to their backfield. His ability to run between the tackles, catch passes out of the backfield, and make defenders miss in open space would give South Carolina’s offense another weapon to work with.

    With his combination of speed and power, McGill could complement the existing running backs on the roster, providing a well-rounded attack that could make life difficult for opposing defenses. His vision and ability to create plays in the open field would be especially valuable in the SEC, where running backs are often relied upon to carry the load in tough games.

    Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Jaylen McGill?

    For Jaylen McGill, this decommitment marks the beginning of a new chapter in his recruitment. As he reevaluates his options, McGill is expected to take several visits to different programs, weighing the pros and cons of each. His decision will have significant ramifications not only for the schools involved but also for the overall landscape of college football recruiting.

    For South Carolina, the hope is that McGill’s decommitment from Rutgers will turn into a significant opportunity. With the right pitch and a strong recruiting effort, the Gamecocks could land one of the top running back prospects in the country, helping to solidify their place as one of the rising powers in the SEC. For McGill, his next move will be closely watched by college football fans and analysts alike, as his decision will likely shape the future of his career and the teams vying for his services.

    Conclusion

    Jaylen McGill’s decommitment from Rutgers represents a critical moment in his recruitment and opens the door for a host of programs, especially South Carolina, to make a play for his commitment.

  • Shane Beamer calls out “a team” for faking injuries, and it’s pretty obvious who he’s referring to

    Shane Beamer calls out "a team" for faking injuries, and it's pretty obvious who he's referring to

    In the ongoing SEC drama, Shane Beamer’s feelings toward Lan Kiffin’s Ole Miss Rebels are no secret.

    Had Shane Beamer’s South Carolina Gamecocks avoided their dismal performance against Ole Miss, there’s a good chance they could have made it into the College Football Playoff. Both teams ended the season with identical 9-3 (5-3) records, just shy of the playoff cut. South Carolina, playing some of their best football late in the season, was left on the outside looking in.

    However, months after the season ended, Beamer is still airing his grievances about the Rebels’ tactics.

    “A team that we played this season — it’s amazing how many times they had an injury on defense after the opposing offense made a first down on an explosive play and had some momentum,”

    Beamer shared with Pete Nakos of On3. It’s clear who Beamer is referring to, as Ole Miss has had a reputation for faking injuries to slow down the game — a tactic often employed by their defense.

    Under Kiffin, Ole Miss has typically been a high-powered offensive team, but defensively, they’ve struggled. Beamer’s frustration stems from this, as it seems the Rebels’ injury antics came at the most inconvenient times for his Gamecocks, typically after big plays that shifted momentum.

    Looking ahead, South Carolina might be a stronger team next season, but Ole Miss still has a formula to beat them, particularly when they find themselves in high-scoring shootouts. With LaNorris Sellers being a significant part of the Gamecocks’ offensive game, it can be difficult for them to come from behind once they’re trailing in a fast-paced game.

    With the SEC schedule flipping this season, South Carolina is set to face Ole Miss again this fall, and this rivalry is one that’s bound to get even more interesting.

    Lane Kiffin is no stranger to controversy, and his reputation as a troll is well-known. While his antics may have sometimes overshadowed Ole Miss’ playoff aspirations, there’s no denying his ability to elevate the program. Yet, some argue his personality might also hold them back from reaching their true potential.

    On the other hand, while Beamer has restored South Carolina to relevance, his team has still faced a few tough losses each season. The game against Ole Miss last year was arguably their worst, and while the Gamecocks have pulled off some impressive wins, Beamer’s aggressive attitude might sometimes be more bark than bite.

    At the end of the day, there’s something special about these teams — two that don’t meet often enough in SEC play — showing a little extra edge. Rivalries in the SEC are legendary, and while some secondary rivalries may be more compelling than others, the emergence of this Ole Miss-South Carolina feud is one that adds more excitement to the league.

    In the end, only one of these teams will come out on top when they face off this season, and that’s what makes this rivalry so compelling.

  • South Carolina vs Ole Miss: Do the Gamecocks Have What It Takes to Upset the Rebels?

    As we roll into February, the South Carolina Gamecocks men’s basketball

    Can South Carolina finally secure their first conference win and take down the Ole Miss Rebels?

    As we roll into February, the South Carolina Gamecocks men’s basketball team is still looking for their first conference victory of the season. On Wednesday, they face a tough challenge against the 19th-ranked Ole Miss Rebels. Though South Carolina will have the advantage of playing at home, the question remains—can they shock the Rebels with an upset?

    According to ESPN analytics, South Carolina’s chances of winning stand at just 32.4 percent. Meanwhile, Ole Miss holds a 7-4 record in conference play, though they’ve stumbled with a 3-4 record in their last seven games. However, all of those losses have come at the hands of ranked opponents.

    For the Gamecocks, there is some hope. Ole Miss recently scraped by with a narrow two-point victory over LSU, a team that has only one conference win this season. South Carolina, on the other hand, has shown they can compete with ranked teams, falling by just four points to Texas A&M and pushing Mississippi State to overtime in a recent matchup.

    It’s clear—if South Carolina is going to pull off a major upset, they’ll need to play their most complete game yet. The opportunity is there, but the stakes have never been higher.

    More news….

    First-Round Projections Have South Carolina DT T.J. Sanders As a Top NFL Draft Pick

    T.J. Sanders

    The 2025 NFL Draft process is in full swing, and former South Carolina defensive tackle T.J. Sanders is now considered a potential first-round pick.

    Although Sanders might have flown under the radar this season due to the dominant performances of South Carolina’s EDGE rushers, Dylan Stewart and Kyle Kennard, he is gaining recognition as the draft approaches. National analysts, including NFL Network’s lead draft expert, Daniel Jeremiah, are starting to take notice of Sanders’ impressive tape.

    Jeremiah recently released his updated NFL Mock Draft, where he has Sanders going 31st overall to the Philadelphia Eagles. Regarding the potential selection, Jeremiah commented:

    “There has not been a lot of buzz for Sanders, but I thought his tape was outstanding. He’s really twitchy and would fit right in with the bevy of talented defensive linemen in Philly.”

    T.J. Sanders’ accolades include:

    • 2024 Third-Team All-America (College Football Nation)
    • 2024 First-Team All-SEC (College Football Nation)
    • 2024 Second-Team All-SEC (AP, Phil Steele)
    • 2024 SEC Interior Defender of the Year (College Football Nation)
    • 2023 Third-Team All-SEC (College Football Network)
    • 2023 Fourth-Team All-SEC (Phil Steele)
    • 2023 Nutrition Award
    • 2023 Rex Enright Defensive Player of the Spring
    • 2023 co-South Carolina Spirit Award – Defense

  • Shawn Murphy’s Quest: Achieving Health, Growth, and a Major Role at South Carolina

    Shawn Murphy

    It’s time for Shawn Murphy to step up as the new linebacker for South Carolina.

    As a redshirt junior, the former standout from Manassas, Virginia, joins a Gamecocks linebacking unit in need of a fresh start, replacing its top three players. At the same time, Murphy is focused on advancing his own development as a player.

    In a recent interview on 107.5 The Game’s Gamecock Club Hour, Murphy shared why he chose South Carolina: “I know one of the main things I was looking for was to be developed and to have a great culture with great people,” Murphy explained. “And I think South Carolina really embodied all those factors. There is also opportunity there, and I was just happy with what I saw on my official visit—just talking to all the coaches. The staff, how intentional they are, and how everything is the same way I saw it when I first visited them. I think that was very important to me in making the decision.”

    Standing 6-foot-2 and weighing 230 pounds, Murphy began his college career at Alabama, where he joined Nick Saban’s team as the No. 6 linebacker and No. 65 overall prospect in the class of 2022.

    During his redshirt freshman season in 2023, Murphy saw action in all 13 games, registering three tackles while contributing on special teams and as a reserve defender.

    However, after Saban’s sudden retirement, Murphy transferred to Florida State, which had just completed an undefeated regular season. Though an offseason injury slowed his progress, Murphy finished the season strong, playing in the Seminoles’ final four games. He recorded 13 tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, and a fumble recovery.

    In the latest chapter of his journey, Murphy entered the transfer portal once again and joined South Carolina last month, hoping to unlock his potential in Clayton White’s defensive system, where he’s expected to contribute immediately.

    “He’s very aggressive with his linebackers and his defense as a whole,” Murphy said of White’s approach. “And he kind of lets his players play ball, and I really like that. Another thing I noticed was he has a lot of things that could be built around the team he has. He has a lot of tools to be able to use, and I feel like it’s going to be really hard for people not to fit in this scheme. I think I could fit a lot of things he does, and that’s what made it real easy to decide here as well.”

    With two years of eligibility left, Murphy is ready to take on a larger role, and he’s clear about the first step: staying healthy. A hamstring injury nearly derailed his entire season at Florida State, so Murphy is determined to prioritize his physical condition.

    “The biggest thing for me is, one, focusing on staying healthy, taking care of my body, and doing a lot of prehab and rehab,” Murphy said. “Even when my body’s feeling great, I think that’s the best time to really prep your body for everything you’re doing. I think that’s very important.”

    But physical preparation is only part of the equation. Murphy also emphasizes the mental side of the game.

    “But another thing is just focus—just focus on myself. Stack days, worry about the little things, improve the little things, and just learn the knowledge. Learn the language they speak and play my best ball. That’s it. Just connect with people as much as I can, give as much knowledge as I can, and take in as much knowledge as I can. Nothing crazy—just do the little things.”

    Murphy will get his chance to prove he’s ready for a bigger role when the Gamecocks begin spring practice next month.

  • Report: Ex-UConn, South Carolina player Eric Cobb accused of murdering his mother

    Tragic News from Jacksonville, Florida

    Good evening, I’m reporting live with breaking news out of Jacksonville, Florida, where former South Carolina and UConn basketball player, Eric Cobb, has been arrested and charged with the second-degree murder of his mother, Erika Winford. According to the Florida Times-Union, Cobb, a Jacksonville native, was taken into custody after his mother was found deceased in their backyard on Tuesday morning, wrapped in blankets and towels.

    The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office confirmed they were called to the home for a wellness check after a family friend noticed “a large area of blood outside and what appeared to be a body wrapped in a blanket.” The friend had visited the home following concerns about Winford’s safety. It was reported that on Monday evening, a neighbor heard a woman screaming, “He’s going to kill me”, and another neighbor reported hearing multiple gunshots in the same time frame.

    Upon arriving at the scene, authorities found Cobb alone inside the house. When they uncovered the body of Erika Winford, they discovered multiple gunshot wounds to her head, stomach, and left leg. Further examination revealed blood stains and bullet marks in the hallway, along with signs that the area had been partially cleaned.

    Authorities also found disturbing evidence inside the home. At the foot of Cobb’s bed, officers discovered a soft case containing an AR-style rifle and a Smith & Wesson 9mm handgun, both with live rounds inside. Additionally, a trash bin nearby contained 14 spent 9mm shell casings.

    A friend of Winford’s, who had spent Sunday with her, shared that she seemed fearful when he dropped her off at home. The following day, when the friend returned to check on her, there was no answer at the door. It was only after inspecting the rear of the property that he found the blood and blankets, prompting him to call authorities.

    Reports reveal that Winford had previously expressed fear of her son, describing him as “possessed” and suffering from schizophrenia. She had also reportedly been worried about Cobb’s inability to afford his medication. Cobb’s other son disclosed that he had moved out over a month ago after an altercation with their mother, during which Cobb “cursed out” Winford.

    Cobb, 28, had a tumultuous career in basketball. Standing at 6-foot-9, he played for both UConn and South Carolina between 2015 and 2019. His time at South Carolina ended abruptly in 2016 after he was dismissed following an arrest for shooting vehicles with a BB gun. Cobb then transferred to Chipola College and later rejoined UConn, where he played in 47 games, averaging 3.7 points and 3.8 rebounds during the 2018-19 season.

    This is a developing story, and we will continue to follow any updates on this tragic incident.

  • South Carolina women’s basketball achieves record season viewership.

    In a stunning turn of events on Sunday, South Carolina’s women’s basketball team suffered a defeat to the Texas Longhorns in Austin. This marked the Gamecocks’ first regular-season conference loss since 2021. However, despite the loss, USC managed to deliver a victory for ESPN.

    The South Carolina-Texas game, competing against pregame Super Bowl coverage, garnered impressive viewership. The game averaged over 1 million viewers, with the peak audience reaching 1.3 million, as announced by ESPN PR on Tuesday. These numbers stand as the highest for an ESPN-broadcasted women’s basketball game this season, with only Fox broadcasting games drawing larger audiences.

    South Carolina’s games have always drawn significant attention. Last season, the Gamecocks’ showdown with UConn surpassed 1 million viewers, while the 2022-2023 match against LSU nearly hit 1.5 million. And this weekend, Dawn Staley’s squad could replicate that success.

    USC will renew its heated rivalry with the UConn Huskies on Sunday afternoon, as College GameDay makes its way to Colonial Life Arena. The highly anticipated matchup between two top-10 teams will tip off at 1:00 p.m., broadcast live on ABC. The pregame show will be split between ABC and ESPN, and fans can also catch the action via the ESPN app.

    Both South Carolina and UConn are ranked in the AP Top 10, but they hold even stronger positions in the NET rankings, sitting at No. 1 and No. 2, respectively. While the Gamecocks have accumulated two losses this season, a win over Geno Auriemma’s squad would enhance USC’s case for having the nation’s top resume.

    Before the Sunday showdown with UConn, South Carolina will host an SEC contest against the Florida Gators this Thursday night. The 7:00 p.m. game at CLA will air on the SEC Network, with streaming available through the ESPN app.

    More news…..

    Brady Hunt Rejoins Garnet Trust, confirming his return to South Carolina Football

    Brady Hunt

    In a significant development for South Carolina football, Brady Hunt, a 6-foot-5, 253-pound tight end, has signed a new NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deal with the Gamecocks’ official collective, The Garnet Trust, ensuring his return to the program for the upcoming season.

    Hunt, who transferred to South Carolina from Ball State last offseason, was part of the Gamecocks’ three-man tight end rotation in 2024 alongside Joshua Simon and Michael Smith. He made valuable contributions during the season, recording two receptions for 22 yards, including a key first-down grab late in the victory over Missouri. Known for his versatility both as a blocker and a receiver, Hunt is expected to take on an even larger role next season, especially with Simon having exhausted his eligibility.

    Before joining South Carolina, Hunt had an impressive 2022 season at Ball State, where he caught 46 passes for 498 yards and five touchdowns. His strong performance at Ball State and subsequent transfer to the Gamecocks highlight his potential to become a key player in South Carolina’s offensive game plan.

    This new NIL deal underscores the Gamecocks’ commitment to player retention, with The Garnet Trust playing a crucial role in securing such agreements. Retaining players like Hunt is essential for the program’s continued success, and head coach Shane Beamer has stressed the importance of building strong relationships and maintaining open communication to keep the team unified and motivated.