South Carolina Gamecocks Dominate LSU Tigers, End Their Unbeaten Season
In a highly anticipated showdown, the No. 2 South Carolina Gamecocks defeated the fifth-ranked LSU Tigers 66-56 on Friday night, putting an end to LSU’s undefeated season. The Gamecocks extended their winning streak over LSU to 17 games and all five since Kim Mulkey took over as Tigers coach.
The game, originally scheduled for Thursday night prime time, was delayed due to a winter storm, but the intensity and drama lived up to expectations. Joyce Edwards led the Gamecocks with 14 points, while Sania Feagin added 12 points and seven rebounds. For LSU, Aneesah Morrow had 15 points and 16 rebounds, and Flau’jae Johnson contributed 13 points.
The Gamecocks seized control of the game in the third quarter, opening up a 10-point lead that LSU could not overcome. The Tigers’ loss leaves No. 1 UCLA as the only remaining unbeaten team in the country.
The Gamecocks’ defense played a pivotal role in the victory, holding LSU to just eight points in the second quarter, their lowest-scoring quarter of the season, and limiting them to a season-low 56 points overall. Their strong defense also resulted in a season-high 11 blocked shots and a team total of 13 steals.
Notable Performances
MiLaysia Fulwiley contributed significantly to the Gamecocks’ success in the first half, scoring all eight of her points and recording three steals during that stretch.
Sania Feagin had her seventh double-figure scoring game of the season, along with three blocks for the second consecutive game.
Raven Johnson matched her season-high five steals and sparked the Gamecocks’ 8-0 third-quarter run by scoring her first four points of the game.
Tessa Johnson tied her career-high two blocks and added nine points, including a crucial three-pointer in the second quarter that gave the Gamecocks the lead.
Joyce Edwards dominated the paint, finishing with 14 points, 10 of which came in a strong second-half performance.
Conclusion
The South Carolina Gamecocks’ victory over LSU was a testament to their dominance in the SEC and their ability to overcome adversity. With their 69th consecutive home win and 54th straight SEC regular-season victory, the Gamecocks continue to prove their status as one of the top teams in the nation.
