In the 2024 SEC championship game rematch, South Carolina gives LSU its first defeat as the Gamecocks’ defense silences the Tigers.

In a rematch of the 2024 SEC Championship game, the No. 2 South Carolina Gamecocks delivered a statement victory, silencing No. 1 LSU Tigers 69-58 in a dominant performance that handed LSU its first defeat of the season. The win was a clear indication of South Carolina’s readiness to defend its national title aspirations and showed the depth and discipline of Coach Dawn Staley’s squad. The Gamecocks’ defensive performance was nothing short of spectacular, completely disrupting LSU’s usually high-powered offense and forcing them into uncharacteristic mistakes.

This game, which lived up to its billing as one of the most anticipated matchups of the season, was far more than just a regular-season clash. It had everything—national implications, star power, and fierce rivalry—making it one of the most significant games in women’s college basketball. After winning the SEC Championship in 2024, LSU came into the game undefeated and eager to defend its crown. South Carolina, hungry for redemption after their conference title loss, were determined to make a statement and prove they were still the dominant force in the SEC.

What transpired on that fateful evening was a display of grit, discipline, and defensive excellence from South Carolina, culminating in their ability to control the game from the opening tip to the final buzzer. The Gamecocks’ aggressive defensive schemes shut down Angel Reese, Flau’jae Johnson, and the rest of LSU’s potent offensive attack, making it clear that South Carolina has positioned itself as the team to beat not just in the SEC, but on the national stage as well.

The Stage: A High-Stakes Rematch

When LSU and South Carolina met for the 2024 SEC Championship, it was LSU that emerged victorious in a tightly contested game, with Angel Reese earning the tournament MVP honors after a dominant performance. The Tigers, under head coach Kim Mulkey, had quickly become the team to beat in the SEC. Coming into this game undefeated, they had built an aura of invincibility, with their explosive offense and dynamic playmakers like Reese, Johnson, and Alexis Morris.

South Carolina, on the other hand, had been riding high with a dominant season under Dawn Staley, despite losing the SEC title. The Gamecocks were not only battle-tested but had learned from their previous defeat and made a point of proving they were still the class of the SEC. With stars like Aliyah Boston, Zia Cooke, and Brea Beal, the Gamecocks had all the pieces in place to challenge LSU for supremacy, and they were determined to show that they were ready to take the next step.

The atmosphere at Colonial Life Arena was electric, with fans from both teams filling the stands, knowing that this would be no ordinary game. This was a clash of titans, where the winner would not only claim bragging rights but also send a message to the entire college basketball community.

First Half: South Carolina’s Stifling Defense

From the moment the game began, it was clear that South Carolina had come prepared with a defensive game plan designed to shut down LSU’s offensive juggernaut. The Gamecocks’ defense was suffocating, as they immediately went to work pressuring LSU’s shooters and clogging the paint. Aliyah Boston, the reigning National Player of the Year, was an absolute force on both ends of the floor, protecting the rim and contesting nearly every shot that came her way. Boston’s leadership and rim protection were key in keeping LSU from getting into any offensive rhythm.

South Carolina’s defense was effective in limiting Angel Reese‘s ability to get easy buckets inside. The Gamecocks threw double teams at Reese, forcing her to take contested shots and limiting her opportunities in the post. While Reese still found ways to score, her efficiency was nowhere near what we’ve seen in past games. She was forced to work for every point, and her frustration began to show as the game went on.

On the offensive end, Zia Cooke and Brea Beal led the charge for the Gamecocks. Cooke, who has been one of the most versatile guards in the country, attacked LSU’s defense relentlessly, driving to the basket and creating opportunities for her teammates. Beal, known for her defensive prowess, stepped up in a big way offensively as well, knocking down key shots and contributing in transition.

While Flau’jae Johnson and Alexis Morris tried to keep LSU within striking distance, they were stifled by South Carolina’s defense. The Gamecocks’ relentless pressure made it nearly impossible for LSU to run their usual sets and get their shooters open looks. The Gamecocks built an early lead, going into the half up 35-25, a margin that felt larger considering the ease with which South Carolina had controlled the game.

Second Half: South Carolina Continues Its Defensive Mastery

Coming out of halftime, LSU made adjustments to try and claw back into the game. Kim Mulkey’s halftime speech focused on getting her team to play with more intensity and to trust in their offensive schemes. The Tigers came out of the break with a renewed sense of urgency, but South Carolina’s defense continued to dominate.

Despite LSU’s best efforts, the Gamecocks’ ability to close out on shooters and contest every shot was remarkable. South Carolina made sure that Flau’jae Johnson and Alexis Morris had no easy paths to the basket, often forcing them into contested jump shots or turnovers. As the game wore on, LSU found itself in an increasingly difficult position, as their offensive flow was nonexistent, and they couldn’t seem to get comfortable against South Carolina’s defensive wall.

The Gamecocks’ depth and balanced scoring attack continued to shine in the second half. Aliyah Boston remained a presence in the paint, grabbing rebounds, blocking shots, and finishing in the post with authority. Cooke added crucial buckets, including a couple of mid-range jumpers that kept LSU from gaining any momentum. Brea Beal, who had been steady throughout the game, also hit a key three-pointer late in the second half that pushed the lead to 14 points and effectively sealed the game for South Carolina.

In the final minutes, South Carolina showed poise and composure as they drained the clock and iced the game from the free-throw line. LSU, despite trying to push the tempo, could not overcome their offensive struggles, and South Carolina cruised to a 69-58 victory, handing the Tigers their first loss of the season.

Key Players and Standout Performances

For South Carolina, the standout player was Aliyah Boston, who finished with 18 points, 14 rebounds, and 4 blocks. Her presence in the paint, both defensively and offensively, was a huge factor in the Gamecocks’ win. Boston’s ability to dominate the glass and protect the rim set the tone for South Carolina’s defense, and she showed why she is considered one of the best players in women’s college basketball.

Zia Cooke also had an exceptional performance, finishing with 15 points, 6 assists, and 4 rebounds. Cooke’s ability to break down LSU’s defense and score in a variety of ways was crucial to South Carolina’s success. Her transition play and ability to create for her teammates were key to breaking down LSU’s defense.

Brea Beal added 12 points and played stellar defense throughout the game. Beal’s defensive versatility allowed her to guard multiple positions and shut down some of LSU’s key offensive threats. Her three-pointer in the second half was a momentum-shifting play that put the game out of LSU’s reach.

For LSU, Angel Reese finished with 21 points and 9 rebounds but was forced to take 20 shots to get there. Her efficiency was significantly lower than usual, and South Carolina’s defensive schemes clearly disrupted her rhythm. Flau’jae Johnson and Alexis Morris struggled to find their offensive game, combining for just 15 points on 6-of-20 shooting. LSU’s offense, which had been explosive all season long, was completely neutralized by South Carolina’s suffocating defense.

The Bigger Picture: South Carolina’s Title Aspirations

This victory was about much more than just one game. For Dawn Staley and her team, it was a statement win. It showed that South Carolina is more than capable of handling the pressure of a high-profile game and proves that their defense is perhaps the most formidable in the country. The Gamecocks have now firmly established themselves as the team to beat, not just in the SEC, but on the national stage as well.

The Gamecocks’ defensive identity is what makes them so dangerous. They’ve built a program that is centered around locking down opponents, and this win against LSU further exemplified how they can shut down even the most potent offenses in the country. If South Carolina continues to play with this kind of defensive intensity and balanced offense, they will be one of the favorites to win the NCAA championship.

For LSU, this loss is a wake-up call. While the Tigers remain a talented and dangerous team, their offensive game will need to evolve if they are to compete with South Carolina again in the future. Kim Mulkey and her team will likely use this defeat as motivation to get better, and LSU still has the talent to be a championship contender. However, they must learn how to adjust when their offensive flow is disrupted, as South Carolina showed them the blueprint for how to stop them.

A Defining Victory for South Carolina

South Carolina’s 69-58 win over LSU in the SEC Championship game rematch was a dominant and defining performance that set the tone for the remainder of the season. The Gamecocks’ defense was suffocating, their offense was efficient, and they showed that they are the team to beat in women’s college basketball. With stars like Aliyah Boston, Zia Cooke, and Brea Beal leading the charge, South Carolina is poised for another deep run in the NCAA tournament. For LSU, the road ahead will require adjustments and a renewed sense of urgency, but they have the talent to rebound from this loss. As both teams continue their journeys toward a potential championship, one thing is clear: this rivalry will continue to be one of the most exciting storylines in women’s college basketball.