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Category: South Carolina Gamecocks

  • South Carolina WBB remains dominant, but one issue persists.

    South Carolina WBB remains dominant, but one issue persists.

    In a stunning twist, South Carolina’s women’s basketball team saw its SEC regular season winning streak come to an end with a hard-fought 66-62 loss at Texas. This marked the Gamecocks’ first SEC loss since December 30, 2021. While the defeat is disappointing, it’s important to note that the team’s goals remain very much in reach.

    South Carolina (22-2, 10-1 SEC) still has a clear path to securing another SEC regular season title if they can win out in their final five games. This would also place them in a strong position as the No. 2 seed in the SEC Tournament, with a real shot at taking the title there. And, as always, the NCAA Tournament looms large, with a fourth National Championship very much in sight.

    As Head Coach Dawn Staley put it, “The law of averages says at some point somebody is going to get you. I’m just glad they didn’t get us where we can’t survive. We still control our own destiny.”

    While having goals is crucial, the challenge remains to achieve them. A single close loss doesn’t alter the bigger picture, but it does highlight a recurring issue for the Gamecocks that could be concerning as the season progresses.

    Both of South Carolina’s losses this year have featured dominant post players who have exploited the Gamecocks’ defense in the paint. In November, it was UCLA’s Lauren Betts, who notched a double-double and attacked the basket with ease. In this game, Texas’ Kyla Oldacre proved to be a force, scoring eight points in the fourth quarter and pushing around South Carolina’s frontcourt. This was such a problem that Staley made the decision to change up her rotation during crunch time.

    Chloe Kitts and Joyce Edwards didn’t play at all in the fourth quarter, with Sania Feagin getting the nod due to her ability to match up with Oldacre. Staley acknowledged, “They used Oldacre to finish us. She did a great job. She came through time and time again with crucial baskets.”

    The stats paint a clear picture of Texas’ dominance inside, winning the paint battle 40-26 and outrebounding South Carolina 42-35. This marks the second time in a month that the Gamecocks have lost the rebounding battle to one of their top SEC rivals. Combined with previous losses to LSU, Tennessee, and UCLA in the rebounding category, it’s becoming clear that South Carolina is facing challenges on the boards against elite teams.

    However, this issue—while significant—is almost a “luxury problem” for the Gamecocks. Their offense remains elite, their defense is top-notch, and their depth continues to outmatch most opponents. Still, the rebounding struggles, particularly since the injury to Ashlyn Watkins, are likely to persist throughout the season. South Carolina will need favorable matchups in the NCAA Tournament to avoid facing teams with dominant forwards.

    “We give up too much when Chloe or Joyce are on her,” said Staley of Oldacre. “We could have tried Adhel Tac, she’s just not experienced enough. She’s a very experienced post player. I thought she brought it all home for them.”

    As February rolls on and the regular season nears its conclusion, the Gamecocks are what they are: an incredibly talented team with one glaring weakness that they’ll need to work around. If the matchups are favorable, they remain one of the favorites to claim the National Championship, but only time will tell how they navigate these challenges in the coming months.

  • ‘Unfamiliar territory’: Dawn Staley’s Reaction to South Carolina’s Loss Against Texas

    Dawn Staley

    No. 2 South Carolina suffered a 66-62 defeat to No. 4 Texas on Sunday, marking just their second loss of the season. The Gamecocks are now 22-2 and 10-1 in SEC play. This loss also ends their 57-game SEC regular-season win streak, a streak that stretched back to December 2021.

    “It’s unfamiliar territory for us,” Dawn Staley commented. “This is the first game that we’ve lost in two years, I think. The law of averages says at some point, somebody’s gonna get you.”

    The outcome has shaken up the SEC standings, with both South Carolina and Texas now tied at the top of the conference, each holding a 10-1 record. The Gamecocks had defeated the Longhorns 67-50 in their previous matchup on January 12.

    “I’m just glad they didn’t get us where we can’t survive,” Staley continued. “We still control our own destiny. We do have to look around a little bit and hope somebody knocks Texas or LSU off so we can control it for the rest of the way. I’m sure they’re going to think the same thing with us as well.”

    Staley reflected on the game, saying, “We fought in this particular game. There are some things that we definitely can get better at. This type of game, you’re just trying to survive. You can’t really run your offenses. And players have to make plays at that point because you can design the play up, but they can blow it up with their defense, and they did that a lot tonight.”

    She added that it’s different when you’re in the environment compared to practicing. “They disrupted us. We worked on some things that we could do to relieve the pressure, but it didn’t work. It’s a lot easier when you’re practicing and you’re not in this environment. It’s loud, and you can’t hear what the play call is, and you’ve got to improvise a little bit.”

    When discussing the effect Texas and Oklahoma have on the SEC, Staley said, “I think them and Oklahoma just make us, not arguably the best conference in the country — we are. We are solidified with bringing them in. You’ve got a top five program, you’ve got a top 25 program coming into a league that’s already just unforgiving, and now it’s just survival at this point. Anybody can beat anybody.”

    Staley then spoke on the similarities and differences between her team and Texas: “I think we’re pretty balanced. We’ve got what most people don’t have, which is post depth. We have the ability to be versatile. We defend pretty good. They’ve probably got the advantage in the rebounding. So we’ve got to get better in that area.”

    After the Gamecocks outscored Texas 22-13 in the third quarter, Staley explained, “I think we came out and we did some things that we wanted to do. They had a lot to do with it. They disrupted us. And I think we had a smaller lineup in that we probably don’t practice as much as we need to practice in these types of situations.”

    On using a four-guard lineup late in the game, Staley said, “We need Bree Hall on Madison Booker, or as much as we could stay matched up on her. So we thought we needed to go to a small lineup. They were pretty small as well. We weren’t getting anything from our bigs.”

    When asked about defending Texas’ Kyla Oldacre, Staley responded, “Sania (Feagin) is the only one that can guard her — halfway guard her. We give up too much when Chloe Kitts or Joyce Edwards are on her.”

    Finally, Staley discussed the significance of the game being featured before the Super Bowl. “Quite honestly, we’re it right now. Women’s basketball is it right now. They’re not gonna put just any women’s game on to be a prelude to the Super Bowl. They put it on because they know the ratings will be there. They knew it was going to be a tightly matched basketball game.”

    She added, “I just hope now that people are seeing our game being showcased, that we’ll get the respect in all areas — revenue sharing — we get the respect in all areas that our game deserves.”

    A hard-fought battle on Sunday highlighted the growing recognition of women’s basketball as South Carolina and Texas showcased their elite talent in a pivotal SEC showdown.

  • South Carolina Women’s Basketball vs. Texas: Viewing Guide, Predictions, Odds, Injuries, and Live Updates

    South Carolina Women's Basketball vs. Texas: Viewing Guide, Predictions, Odds, Injuries, and Live Updates

    Good afternoon! It’s a highly anticipated matchup today as the No. 2 South Carolina women’s basketball team heads to Austin, Texas, to face the No. 4 Texas Longhorns. Here’s everything you need to know for the game, including how to tune in, the latest predictions, odds, and injury updates.

    Who’s Playing:

    • No. 2 South Carolina (22-1, 10-0 SEC) vs. No. 4 Texas (23-2, 9-1 Big 12)

    When: Sunday, February 9, 2025, at 2 p.m. ET

    Where: Moody Center, Austin, Texas (10,763-seat arena)

    How to Follow the Game

    • TV Broadcast: ESPN will carry the game, with Ryan Ruocco handling play-by-play, Rebecca Lobo providing analysis, and Holly Rowe as the reporter.
    • Streaming: You can stream the game on ESPN’s website or app with your TV provider login.
    • South Carolina Radio/Streaming: Listen live on 107.5 FM (Columbia) or 96.3 FM (Florence). Brad Muller will call the game. The pregame show starts at 1:30 p.m. (in Columbia). Streaming is available on their website.
    • Texas Radio/Streaming: The Longhorn Radio Network will broadcast the game, with streaming available on TexasSports.com.
    • Satellite Radio/Streaming: Tune in to SiriusXM channels 191 or 211 or stream on SiriusXM.com.

    Betting Info:

    As of 10:35 a.m. on Sunday, South Carolina is favored by 2.5 points, with an over/under of 137.5.

    Regarding the NCAA Women’s Tournament future odds, South Carolina is a moneyline favorite at +155 (bet $100 to win $155) on FanDuel, followed by UCLA (+390), Notre Dame (+500), UConn (+550), and Texas at +2000. On DraftKings, South Carolina’s odds are at +175, with Texas at +1300.

    Predictions:

    Here’s how some predictions are shaping up:

    • Massey Ratings predicts a South Carolina win, 70-66, with a 58% chance for the Gamecocks to take the victory.
    • Bart Torvik gives a similar result, predicting South Carolina 69, Texas 68, with the Gamecocks having a 51% chance.
    • GamecockCentral and 107.5 The Game predictions include:
      • Tyler Head: Gamecocks 70-62
      • Kevin Miller: Gamecocks 78-66
      • Brian Shoemaker: Gamecocks 69-65
      • Jack Veltri: Gamecocks 73-63

    Injury Report:

    • South Carolina: Ashlyn Watkins is OUT for the rest of the season after suffering a torn ACL.
    • Texas: Both Aaliyah Moore and Laila Phelia are OUT. Moore has been a starter in 19 games, averaging 7.9 points and 4.6 rebounds, while Phelia has appeared in 8 games, averaging 6.1 points and 2.1 rebounds.

    We’ll keep you updated throughout the game with live updates. Stay tuned to GamecockCentral for real-time commentary and join us on The Insiders Forum approximately 30 minutes before tip-off!

  • Gamecocks Dominate Saturday Doubleheader

    Carolina softball team

    COLUMBIA, S.C. – The South Carolina softball team (4-0) secured a doubleheader sweep on Saturday (Feb. 8), defeating Providence (0-3) 8-0 via the run rule and Saint Francis (0-3) 7-0.

    Quincee Lilio and Karley Shelton were key to the Gamecocks’ offensive success, each recording three hits. Shelton and Ella Chancey both led the team with three runs scored, and four different players contributed with two RBIs each.

    GAME ONE

    Lilio opened the game for Carolina with a two-strike triple to left center in the bottom of the first. The Gamecocks went on to score five runs in the inning, benefiting from four walks, two hit-by-pitches, and a sacrifice fly.

    Chancey began the second inning with a double, followed by a single from Brooke Blankenship. Lexi Winters then loaded the bases after being hit by a pitch. Abigail Knight followed with a sacrifice fly to center, bringing Chancey home. Blankenship scored on a wild pitch, and Emily Vinson drove in Winters with a single up the middle.

    The Gamecocks executed three inning-ending double plays, including a 6-4-3 double play that sealed the game in the fifth.

    Kadie Becker earned her first win as a Gamecock, pitching four innings and allowing four hits. Olivia Kotowski made her debut, pitching the final inning in relief.

    GAME TWO

    Nealy Lamb dominated in the circle against Saint Francis, tossing five innings, striking out seven, and allowing only three hits. She also struck out the side in the second inning.

    In the third inning, Shelton hit her first home run of the season, a 255-foot shot to center, giving Carolina a 1-0 lead.

    Shelton added another RBI in the fifth with a single, followed by a sacrifice fly from Arianna Rodi that drove in another run. Chancey then hit an RBI double, and Winters brought in two more with a triple to left center.

    That was all the Gamecocks needed, as Sam Gress entered in the sixth and retired the Red Flash in order. She pitched the final two innings, striking out two SFU batters.

    South Carolina will look to remain undefeated with its final Gamecock Invitational game tomorrow (Feb. 9) at 3 p.m. against East Carolina.

  • Report: San Francisco 49ers likely to trade Deebo Samuel

    Deebo Samuel may

    Deebo Samuel may have just played his last game for San Francisco.

    NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported Sunday morning that the 49ers are likely to consider trading Samuel this offseason. While Rapoport mentioned it isn’t a “certainty” that Samuel and the team will part ways, both parties are “at peace” with the possibility of moving on if the right deal comes through.

    The South Carolina product was selected 36th overall in the 2019 NFL Draft and has spent his entire six-year career with the 49ers.

    Samuel earned first-team All-Pro honors after a 1,405-yard receiving season in 2021. Although this was his only season surpassing the 1,000-yard mark, he has been a key contributor to San Francisco’s offense.

    In 2024, Samuel saw his lowest target count since his rookie year and set a career-low for receptions (excluding the 2020 season, when he played just seven games due to injury). He recorded only 670 receiving yards, marking his second-lowest total in a season.

    Last offseason, there were rumors about Samuel’s future when San Francisco drafted former Florida wide receiver Ricky Pearsall in the first round and extended Brandon Aiyuk. However, Samuel stayed with the team, stating in the summer, “We’re here, and we’re here to get better.”

    Samuel is entering the final year of a 3-year, $71.55 million extension he signed in July 2022, with $17.55 million still owed to him.

    Derek Peterson does a bit of everything, similar to Taysom Hill. He has covered Oklahoma, Nebraska, the Pac-12, and now provides content on college football as a whole.

  • Shane Beamer Claims SEC Deserves Automatic CFB Playoff Bids Following Tough Bowl Season

    Shane Beamer

    Anyone who watched the bowl games at the close of 2024 and into the start of 2025 would know that the SEC endured a rough postseason in college football.

    Texas A&M fell to USC, Tennessee was crushed by Ohio State in the College Football Playoff, Alabama was defeated by a lackluster Michigan squad, Navy triumphed over Oklahoma, Illinois beat South Carolina, Arizona State had a potential fourth-quarter win over Texas overturned due to poor officiating, Notre Dame topped Georgia, and finally, Ohio State comfortably handled Texas, securing a second consecutive title for the Big Ten.

    While the SEC did manage some bowl victories and clearly had several top teams, no one who closely follows college football could argue that the results proved the SEC warranted more respect or automatic advantages.

    That is, except for South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer, apparently.

    Shane Beamer Advocates for SEC Automatic Bids to the CFP

    Shane Beamer

    In an interview with On3’s Pete Nakos, Shane Beamer expressed his belief that the SEC deserves automatic bids to the College Football Playoff, stating that “it’s just different” in the SEC, which he believes justifies the conference’s place in the playoff.

    “The fact of the matter is, we beat the ACC Champion on their field this year and didn’t get in…I do believe this league is just different than others and there has to be some consideration.”

    That’s certainly an interesting perspective, though not one without its flaws.

    South Carolina suffered a loss to Illinois in a bowl game. Illinois, with a 9-4 season record, is hardly a team that warrants a playoff spot. They narrowly defeated Old Dominion by just four points at home, 23-19. They were also defeated by LSU, who finished unranked, and managed only three points in a 27-3 loss to Ole Miss. To top it off, they were defeated by a four-loss Alabama team.

    While they did secure a win against Clemson, a single victory over another conference champion doesn’t automatically guarantee playoff entry, even with 12 spots available.

    The idea that “it’s just different in the SEC” needs to be put to rest—yesterday, not today. Yes, the SEC boasts many excellent programs, some with storied success and others with recent triumphs. They also enjoy strong fan support and have a media presence that emphasizes the conference’s unique status. However, this “difference” is largely overstated.

    When USC was dominant in college football, there was no talk of the Pac-10 being “just different.” The same applies to Alabama’s dominance, as other SEC teams have acted as though Nick Saban’s success has somehow made the entire conference invincible in theoretical matchups.

    In reality, the SEC might have some advantages over other top conferences. For instance, the Big Ten teams now have to deal with cross-country travel, with West Coast teams traveling to places like Maryland or New Jersey. The SEC, however, remains primarily centered in the South, and even with expansion, travel remains easier. Moreover, the SEC plays eight conference games compared to the Big Ten’s nine, often using that extra non-conference game to schedule an FCS team for a de facto bye week.

    With 12 playoff spots, South Carolina only needed to avoid three losses to make it into the postseason. They couldn’t do that, and that’s why they didn’t make the cut.

  • Marcus Lattimore talks about his South Carolina football career and life following injuries.

    In a heartfelt interview on the "Glory Daze" podcast, Marcus Lattimore

    In a heartfelt interview on the “Glory Daze” podcast, Marcus Lattimore sat down with former NFL quarterback Johnny Manziel to discuss his remarkable career with South Carolina football, the devastating injuries that shaped his path, and his transition to life beyond the sport.

    On October 27, 2012, during a game against the Tennessee Volunteers, Marcus Lattimore, South Carolina’s star running back, suffered a catastrophic knee injury that would forever alter his career and remain etched in the memories of college football fans. The sight of Lattimore lying on the field, his leg severely bent, is an image that still resonates with those who witnessed it.

    “I vividly remember that day,” Lattimore recalled. “I was sitting on the couch with my then-husband, watching the South Carolina vs. Tennessee game. The play unfolded… Lattimore’s determined run, the collision with defenders, and then… his leg, unnaturally suspended in the air. I screamed, and my husband leaped up in shock, his hands covering his mouth.” The room fell silent as the severity of the injury set in.

    The atmosphere in Williams-Brice Stadium was somber as players from both teams knelt in prayer, and fans stood motionless, trying to comprehend the gravity of the situation. The emotional weight of that moment was evident, with tears flowing freely from players, teammates, and spectators alike.

    That moment, the injury, remains a defining memory for many. It serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of athletes’ careers and the deep emotional connection fans have to the game. Lattimore’s resilience, despite the adversity, continues to inspire, leaving an enduring legacy in the South Carolina community and beyond.

    In the recent podcast interview with Johnny Manziel, Lattimore opened up about his football journey, sharing insights into his time at South Carolina, the challenges injuries posed to his career, and his life after football.

    Commitment to South Carolina:

    Lattimore reflected on his decision to commit to the University of South Carolina, noting the significant influence of then-head coach Steve Spurrier and the warm, supportive community that made him feel at home. He expressed immense pride in representing his home state on a national stage.

    As one of the most sought-after recruits in South Carolina’s history, Lattimore wasted no time in making his mark. His freshman year was nothing short of spectacular, earning national recognition and establishing himself as a cornerstone player for the Gamecocks. His performances were crucial in elevating the program’s status during his time there.

    Memorable Moments:

    Looking back on his college career, Lattimore shared reflections on key moments that defined his legacy at South Carolina.

    • Historic Victory: Lattimore recalled South Carolina’s unforgettable win over Alabama in 2010, marking the program’s first-ever victory over a No. 1 ranked team. He was a driving force in that monumental achievement.
    • Personal Milestones: He also discussed setting the school record for touchdowns and the strong bond he shared with his teammates, which played a pivotal role in their collective success.

    Career-Altering Injuries:

    Lattimore went on to recount the knee injuries that ultimately ended his promising football career, revealing the intense physical and emotional challenges he faced. The extensive rehabilitation required to return to the field was a daunting journey, but his determination never wavered.

    Transitioning Beyond Football:

    The conversation turned to life after football, as Lattimore opened up about the difficult transition from athlete to finding a new sense of purpose. He spoke passionately about his efforts to mentor young athletes, focusing on the importance of mental health and resilience. His initiatives aim to help athletes prepare for life beyond their careers, ensuring they are equipped with the skills and support necessary to navigate post-sports challenges.

    Shared Experiences with Manziel:

    Throughout the interview, both Lattimore and Manziel reflected on the immense pressures that come with being high-profile college athletes. They discussed the challenges of handling public scrutiny, the profound impact of injuries on their careers, and the mental health struggles that often accompany such experiences. Their conversation shed light on the complexities of collegiate athletics and the importance of having a strong support system to navigate the ups and downs.

    Legacy and Influence:

    Lattimore’s legacy at South Carolina extends far beyond his athletic accomplishments. His humility and integrity left an indelible mark on the program, and his decision to remain close to home throughout his college career highlighted his commitment to his community. Even after his playing days ended, his dedication to mentoring and supporting young athletes reinforced his desire to give back.

    In the interview, Lattimore also discussed his involvement in various mentoring programs, underscoring his ongoing role in helping young players cope with the pressures of collegiate sports.

    Ultimately, Marcus Lattimore’s legacy at South Carolina is defined by more than just his on-field success. His remarkable combination of skill, resilience, and character has solidified him as one of the university’s most beloved figures.

    This conversation between two football legends offers profound insights into the resilience athletes must cultivate when faced with unexpected challenges. It also emphasizes the critical need for mental health awareness in the world of sports.

  • WATCH: South Carolina DL T.J. Sanders Shines at Senior Bowl

    T.J. Sanders

    Former South Carolina defensive tackle, T.J. Sanders, is already making an impression at the Senior Bowl. Watch highlights from his one-on-one drills in Mobile, Alabama.

    The first day of practice has officially begun in Mobile, Alabama at the Reese’s Senior Bowl, where three former South Carolina Gamecocks are participating. Among them is T.J. Sanders, who is one of the players hoping to solidify his first-round draft status this week. He has already stood out during the practice sessions.

    Sanders is considered a possible first-round pick in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft. In the most recent Mock Draft by NFL analyst Daniel Jeremiah, Sanders was selected 31st overall by the Philadelphia Eagles. Here’s what he had to say about Sanders’ potential selection:

    “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’ Highlights:
    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

    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.