In a captivating encounter on Friday night, the South Carolina Gamecocks halted the LSU Tigers’ impressive undefeated season, claiming a 66-56 victory at home. The matchup, initially scheduled for Thursday, was postponed due to inclement weather, which only added to the anticipation for this significant Southeastern Conference (SEC) battle. The game showcased two titans of women’s college basketball, each representing the last three national champions, providing fans with a contest brimming with intensity and high stakes.
Joyce Edwards shone brightly for the Gamecocks, contributing 14 points, while teammate Sania Feagin complemented her efforts with 12 points and seven rebounds. However, the spotlight was also on Aneesah Morrow of LSU, who delivered an impressive performance with 15 points and snagged an astounding 16 rebounds. This achievement marked Morrow’s 93rd career double-double, propelling her past Oregon’s Jillian Alleyne in the record books for the second most double-doubles in NCAA Division I history, a testament to her consistent dominance on the court.
South Carolina’s Defensive Prowess
The Gamecocks’ defensive strategy played a pivotal role in their victory. They stifled LSU’s shooting, holding the Tigers to a mere 29.9% from the field throughout the game. Particularly noteworthy was South Carolina’s performance in the third quarter, where they limited LSU to just 5-for-20 shooting. This defensive tenacity marked a rare low for the Tigers, who, under coach Kim Mulkey, experienced their first game shooting below 30% in 126 contests.
With this victory, South Carolina extended its home winning streak to an impressive 69 games, tying with Tennessee for the longest stretch in SEC history and placing them among the top four longest streaks in Division I history. Moreover, this marks the 17th consecutive win for the Gamecocks over LSU since 2016, emphasizing their historical dominance in this rivalry.
The Road Ahead for Both Teams
As both teams look forward, LSU will host Texas A&M on Sunday, eager to rebound from this loss and keep pace in the competitive SEC. Meanwhile, South Carolina will travel to Tennessee on Monday, keen to maintain their momentum and assert their dominance in the conference further. This victory reinforces South Carolina’s position as a powerhouse in women’s college basketball, leaving LSU, despite their past successes under Mulkey, seeking answers to overcome their struggles against the Gamecocks.
Friday night’s clash was not just a win for South Carolina; it was a statement that they remain a formidable force in women’s basketball. As they continue their quest towards a national title, the remnants of this game will undoubtedly linger in the minds of both players and fans alike.
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