Is It Possible for LSU to Win Back the Southeastern Title from South Carolina?
Heading into the game, it was clear that South Carolina had the upper hand, and this matchup wasn't expected to be much of a challenge for them. Oklahoma struggled to keep up, doing their best to work with their defense and offense on the court. South Carolina came out strong, putting points on the board early. Raven Johnson sank a two-pointer from the free throw line, and Skylar Vann tied the game at 4-4 with her shot. Shortly after, Te-Hina Paopao hit a nice three-pointer, followed by Sania Feagin grabbing her own rebound and heading to the free-throw line after being fouled. South Carolina’s dominance lies in their depth and ability to control the game inside, Which has been key to their success. Their bench alone averages 42.2 points per game, highlighting their incredible teamwork and ball movement, they suffered from turnovers, with two early in the game, compared to South Carolina’s seven. South Carolina, known for averaging six blocks per game, displayed their typical defensive strength. Led by head coach Dawn Staley, who is not only a leader but also an advocate for growing the game, Carolina proved why they are so successful. As the first quarter came to an end, MiyLaysia Fulwiley hit a buzzer-beater three-pointer, putting her team at a strong start and extending their lead.
In the second quarter, South Carolina had 15 points off of the six turnovers and maintained their momentum. Oklahoma struggled against the defense Carolina brought. Tessa Johnson made an impressive shot from the baseline, while Chloe Kitts grabbed key rebounds for her team. MiyLaysia was on a roll, putting up shot after shot, as Oklahoma's ongoing turnover issues averaging 22 per game this season continued to arise in their performance. Although some stats align, it doesn't compare to South Carolina's winning streak. Both coaches emphasized the importance of their players playing freely, and MiyLaysia showcased her skills with a smooth finger roll, bringing her points to nine. Raegan Beers added six points. Tessa Johnson scored a mid-range jumper, but Beers committed her first offensive foul. Raven Johnson demonstrated excellent court vision with her consistent passes as South Carolina built their largest lead of the game, 49-24. Bree Hall took the final shot to close out the second quarter.
South Carolina has shown remarkable control coming into the third quarter, committing only two turnovers in the first half. Poa Poa leads with 11 points, while Sania Feagin contributes 10 points. Meanwhile, Oklahoma has tickled with ball control, resulting in several uncontrolled passes. South Carolina has 24 turnovers, the Gamecock have seven three-pointers so far. Despite defensive adjustment by their opponents, South Carolina's ability to adapt has kept them secured in the lead, with a score of 39. Gamecocks kept up the fast breaks as they moved smart and held their ground all the way through till the clock ran out going into the fourth quarter. Oklahoma didn't give up when they couldn't get enough shots up as they should have. It was hard for them to attack.
South Carolina secured another dominant win with a score of 101-60. Joyce Edwards was their top lead scorer for tonight’s game contributing 17 points. Reagan did her best to carry Oklahoma, but it wasn't enough to secure the win on her own she needed more support from her teammates. Sania Feagin played her part once again, putting in seven rebounds, 12 points, and an assist. Johnson also made a valuable contribution with eight assists. Meanwhile, Dawn Staley, just two days after signing the highest-paid contract in the history of women’s basketball, celebrated another victory with her team. South Carolina now has 68 home wins and 53 straight Southeastern Conference regular season wins. South Carolina will face LSU on Thursday, January 23rd, at 8:00 p.m.
