No. 2 South Carolina continues to dominate the SEC with another significant victory over No. 5 LSU.

In a season already full of remarkable performances and statement wins, the No. 2 South Carolina Gamecocks once again proved why they are one of the most formidable teams in women’s college basketball, securing a dominant 72-58 victory over No. 5 LSU. This victory not only further solidified South Carolina’s dominance in the SEC, but it also sent a clear message to the rest of the country: the Gamecocks are a serious national championship contender. The win was a testament to their defensive prowess, depth, and ability to execute under pressure, further cementing their place at the top of the college basketball landscape.

With both teams entering the game with outstanding records and lofty expectations, the stakes could not have been higher. South Carolina had yet to lose a conference game and was determined to defend its standing as one of the most dominant teams in the nation. LSU, led by head coach Kim Mulkey and featuring standout players like Angel Reese and Flau’jae Johnson, entered the matchup on a high note after strong performances earlier in the season. Yet despite their explosive offense and talent, the Tigers couldn’t find an answer for South Carolina’s suffocating defense and well-rounded team play.

A High-Stakes Clash of Two SEC Titans

The SEC has long been one of the most competitive conferences in college basketball, and the rivalry between South Carolina and LSU has taken on a new level of intensity in recent seasons. Under Dawn Staley, South Carolina has become a powerhouse, consistently competing for both SEC titles and national championships. The Gamecocks’ defense, often regarded as one of the best in the country, has been the hallmark of their success, but this year they have added more offensive firepower to complement their stifling defense.

On the other hand, LSU has made great strides under Kim Mulkey, whose coaching pedigree has brought out the best in players like Angel Reese, the 2024 National Player of the Year, and Flau’jae Johnson, one of the most dynamic young players in the game. The Tigers’ fast-paced offense, led by Reese’s ability to dominate the paint, had been nearly unstoppable in the first part of the season. However, South Carolina proved on this night that they were more than capable of stopping even the most potent offenses.

With both teams boasting impressive rosters and national title aspirations, this game was not only a showcase of elite talent but also a battle for supremacy in the SEC. The crowd at Colonial Life Arena in Columbia was electric, as Gamecocks fans were eager to see their team maintain its perfect record in conference play and reaffirm its place as the top team in the SEC.

First Half: South Carolina’s Defense Strangles LSU

As expected, the Gamecocks came out with a focused defensive strategy from the very beginning, disrupting LSU’s offensive flow. Aliyah Boston, the senior forward and reigning National Player of the Year, was a presence on both ends of the floor. She protected the rim, blocked shots, and grabbed key rebounds while also contributing offensively in the post. Boston’s ability to control the paint made it difficult for LSU to execute its offense the way it wanted to.

LSU’s Angel Reese was a key focal point for South Carolina’s defense. Reese had been a force for the Tigers throughout the season, but the Gamecocks were up for the challenge. They frequently sent double teams to Reese in the low post, forcing her into tough shots. Despite her best efforts, Reese struggled to get comfortable, as South Carolina’s length and athleticism constantly challenged her.

At the other end of the floor, South Carolina’s offense was firing on all cylinders. Zia Cooke was exceptional, scoring efficiently in the first half. Cooke’s ability to drive to the basket and hit timely mid-range jumpers kept LSU’s defense guessing and provided South Carolina with the early momentum. Brea Beal also contributed, knocking down crucial shots and providing a steadying presence. Beal’s defensive prowess was also key, as she helped limit LSU’s perimeter players and kept the Tigers’ offense from finding any rhythm.

The Gamecocks’ ball movement was crisp, and their ability to find open shooters and cutters was a testament to their well-coached offensive system. Kierra Fletcher and LeLe Grissett came off the bench and made significant contributions, with Grissett hitting a couple of key three-pointers that stretched LSU’s defense and helped South Carolina build an early lead.

By the end of the first half, South Carolina had established a commanding 42-28 lead. Their defense had effectively neutralized LSU’s offensive threats, and their balanced offensive attack was clicking on all cylinders. It was evident that the Gamecocks had prepared meticulously for this game and were executing their game plan to perfection.

Second Half: LSU’s Attempt to Rally Falls Short

After the break, LSU came out determined to make a push. Head coach Kim Mulkey made adjustments to try and open up more opportunities for Angel Reese, but South Carolina continued to limit her touches and make her work hard for every basket. Despite this, Reese found ways to score, finishing with 17 points and 8 rebounds, but it was clear that she wasn’t able to dominate the game in the way she had in previous matchups.

As the second half progressed, LSU made an effort to speed up the tempo and create some easy baskets in transition, but South Carolina’s defense was ready. The Gamecocks continued to apply pressure, forcing LSU into contested jump shots and turnovers. LSU’s guards, particularly Alexis Morris and Flau’jae Johnson, struggled to find their rhythm against South Carolina’s swarming defense. Both players were forced to take tough shots and had difficulty creating open looks, something they had been able to do with ease earlier in the season.

Meanwhile, South Carolina showed its depth and versatility, with multiple players stepping up to extend the lead. Aliyah Boston continued to dominate inside, scoring efficiently while grabbing rebounds and blocking shots. Zia Cooke remained a major scoring threat, and Brea Beal was relentless on both ends of the floor, keeping LSU’s offense in check and contributing timely baskets.

LSU did manage to cut the lead down to 10 points midway through the second half, but South Carolina responded with a quick 6-0 run, re-establishing control of the game. Kierra Fletcher knocked down a crucial jumper, and LeLe Grissett once again made an impact with an important three-pointer that pushed the lead back up to 16 points.

In the final minutes, LSU continued to fight, but their offense could not keep pace with South Carolina’s defensive pressure. The Gamecocks were able to control the tempo and milk the clock in the closing moments. When the final buzzer sounded, South Carolina had secured a 72-58 victory, further solidifying its place atop the SEC standings and sending a clear message to the rest of the country.

Key Players and Standout Performances

For South Carolina, Aliyah Boston was once again the game’s most dominant player. She finished with 18 points, 12 rebounds, and 4 blocks, showcasing why she is one of the best players in women’s college basketball. Boston’s ability to affect the game on both ends of the floor was critical to the Gamecocks’ success.

Zia Cooke also had a standout performance, contributing 16 points, 5 assists, and 3 rebounds. Cooke’s ability to create her own shot and attack the basket was crucial in breaking down LSU’s defense. Her leadership and offensive consistency were key to keeping the Gamecocks in control of the game.

Brea Beal, known for her defense, also stepped up offensively, finishing with 11 points and providing invaluable perimeter defense. Beal’s ability to guard multiple positions and lock down LSU’s shooters was a major factor in limiting the Tigers’ scoring opportunities.

Off the bench, Kierra Fletcher and LeLe Grissett made important contributions, adding 8 and 7 points, respectively. Their timely scoring and energy were vital in maintaining the Gamecocks’ lead and ensuring they never lost control of the game.

For LSU, Angel Reese had 17 points and 8 rebounds, but she was largely neutralized by South Carolina’s defense. Flau’jae Johnson and Alexis Morris struggled to find their rhythm, combining for just 14 points on 5-of-18 shooting. LSU’s inability to find consistent offensive production from anyone outside of Reese was one of the primary reasons for their defeat.

South Carolina’s Continued Dominance

With this victory, South Carolina improved to a perfect 12-0 in SEC play, further solidifying its dominance in the conference. The Gamecocks have not only established themselves as the best team in the SEC but as one of the top teams in the nation. Their ability to shut down high-powered offenses like LSU’s, coupled with their offensive efficiency, makes them a dangerous team heading into the postseason.

The Gamecocks’ defense has been the foundation of their success this season, and it was on full display in this victory. South Carolina’s suffocating defense has been the key to their undefeated SEC record, and it is clear that they will be a tough matchup for any team in the country.

LSU’s Road Ahead

For LSU, this loss was a setback, but it is by no means the end of their championship aspirations. Angel Reese and Flau’jae Johnson are still among the best players in the country, and LSU has the talent to bounce back. However, the Tigers will need to find a way to adapt when facing teams like South Carolina that can effectively shut down their offense. LSU’s ability to find secondary scoring options and create more consistent offense will be crucial in their pursuit of a national championship.

South Carolina’s Statement Win

South Carolina’s 72-58 victory over LSU was yet another statement win for the Gamecocks, reaffirming their place as one of the top teams in women’s college basketball. Their dominant defense, combined with a balanced offensive attack, continues to make them a formidable force. With stars like Aliyah Boston, Zia Cooke, and Brea Beal, South Carolina is well-positioned to make another deep run in the NCAA tournament. For LSU, the road ahead will require adjustments, but their talent and resilience make them a team to watch in the coming weeks. As the season progresses, both teams will be looking to fine-tune their games in preparation for what is shaping up to be a thrilling postseason.