Markeshia’s Corner: Gamecocks Shine on Record-Breaking 2’2 Day

LIVE FEED: Historic Win and Upcoming Challenges for the Gamecocks

The South Carolina women’s basketball team made history on Sunday with an impressive 83-66 victory over Auburn, setting a new SEC record for consecutive home conference wins—70 in a row! This milestone was achieved on 2’2 Day, an occasion dedicated to honoring A’ja Wilson, one of the greatest players to wear the garnet and black. Wilson, a NCAA Champion and three-time WNBA MVP, has left an indelible mark on the program. Her legendary No. 22 jersey now hangs in the rafters as a constant reminder of her impact on both the team and the game.

Game Highlights:

• The Gamecocks were efficient, shooting 57% from the floor and 42% from beyond the arc.
• Defensively, they dominated with 16 steals, led by Raven Johnson’s game-high 6 steals.

Standout Performances:

Chloe Kitts: A powerful presence in the paint, Kitts contributed 13 points and 9 rebounds, helping to set the tone inside for South Carolina.

Raven Johnson: A true all-around contributor, Johnson added 9 points, 7 assists, and 6 steals. Her versatility continues to make her a key player on this squad.

Seatbelt Gang: South Carolina’s bench was spectacular, contributing 39 points—reaffirming their place as the nation’s top-scoring second unit (42 PPG).

• Joyce Edwards led the bench with 18 points on 72% shooting.
• MiLaysia Fulwiley added 17 points and provided another memorable highlight.
• Tessa Johnson chipped in with 4 points and 3 rebounds.

Up Next: South Carolina vs. Georgia Bulldogs (9-14, 1-8 SEC)

Key Matchups to Watch:

• Guard Defense vs. Trinity Turner: A talented freshman, Turner can dominate but struggles with turnovers (3.2 TOs per game). The Gamecocks need to apply pressure and force mistakes.
• Guard Defense vs. De’Muari Flournoy: Georgia’s sharpshooter, Flournoy hits 41% from three and is their best free-throw shooter (96.9%). South Carolina must push her off the line and defend without fouling.
• Post Play vs. Mia Woolfolk: A strong post player, Woolfolk can get into foul trouble (3 fouls per game). The Gamecocks need to deny deep post-ups and dominate the offensive glass, an area where Georgia struggles.

Gamecocks’ Advantages:

With their unmatched depth, defensive intensity, and speed, South Carolina holds significant advantages. To control the game, they must push the tempo and be ready to face Georgia’s zone defense.

Keys to the Win:

1. Stay focused – Maintain control of the game’s pace.
2. Set the tone early – Establish dominance from the opening tip.
3. Lock in defensively – South Carolina’s man-to-man defense has held teams to just 55.5 PPG.
4. Bench production – The Gamecocks’ second unit is still the best in the country.
5. Win the rebounding battle – South Carolina outrebounds opponents by 8 per game, a key factor in their success.
6. Take care of the ball – With 16.5 assists per game, ball movement is critical.
7. Force turnovers – South Carolina averages 17.5 forced turnovers per game, while Georgia turns it over 16 times per game.
8. Capitalize at the free-throw line – With Georgia being foul-prone, the Gamecocks must convert on free throws.

As South Carolina looks to extend their historic streak, they’ll aim to keep their dominance rolling as they face Georgia next. Stay tuned as the Gamecocks continue their pursuit of excellence in the SEC.