Gamecocks survive Texas showdown 68‑65 in heart-stopping SEC thriller

The South Carolina women's basketball team delivered an edge-of-your-seat win against Texas on Thursday night to avenge their Nov. 27 loss in the Players Era Championship in Las Vegas. That game was considered a nonconference game, so the Lady Gamecocks will keep its undefeated SEC record as they look to keep stacking momentum heading deeper into league play.

It was a fourth-quarter slugfest with ten lead changes and serious intensity in the final five minutes of play. The Gamecocks turned defensive chaos into offensive opportunity when it mattered the most. Ultimately, taking home the win.

Who Led the Charge

Joyce Edwards had a team high of 14 points, eight rebounds, and was a key defensive presence on the court. She drew a foul for a three-point play that gave South Carolina a 58-57 lead with 4:12 remaining, flipping the momentum of the game.

Tessa Johnson had 13 points, including a timely score during the Gamecocks' defensive run. Meanwhile, Raven Johnson scored 10 points and six assists, coming in with the leadership you want in a tight win. She had a had in 12 of South Carolina's final 18 points down the stretch.

Ta'Niya Latson racked up12 and was consistent on scoring, keeping the Gamecocks in striking position. Madina Okot finished with 10 points and five boards. She also knocked down a three in crunch time.

Every starter for South Carolina finished in double figures, showcasing the kind of balance that teams dream about when every possession is a battle.

What This Means for South Carolina

The Gamecocks avenged their only loss of the season and did it against another Top 10 opponent, showcasing the team's resilience. They are stacking quality wins in the SEC, boosting their résumé for March.

With balanced scoring and clutch leadership, the Gamecocks are exactly what separates contenders from the pretenders down the stretch.

Upcoming Game for South Carolina

Sunday, Jan. 18 @ Coppin State, 12:00 PM ET
Non‑conference game in Baltimore. This is a breather before they head back into SEC play.

Thursday, Jan. 22 @ Oklahoma, 7:30 PM ET
First road test in conference. A program with SEC‑level toughness that will test South Carolina’s depth and half‑court execution.

Sunday, Jan. 25 vs Vanderbilt, 3:00 PM ET
Gamecocks are back home in Columbia. Vandy’s gritty style means South Carolina will need to control the glass and pace early.

Thursday, Jan. 29 @ Auburn, 9:00 PM ET
Tough trip to Auburn as the Tigers can surprise teams at home. South Carolina’s offensive balance will be key.

Monday, Feb. 2 @ Texas A&M, 8:00 PM ET
Big‑time road game. The Aggies are a physical squad and will clamor for possessions.

Thursday, Feb. 5 vs Mississippi State, 6:30 PM ET
Home game before a stretch of marquee matchups; must protect the paint and limit threes.

Sunday, Feb. 8 vs Tennessee, 3:00 PM ET
One of the season’s signature home tests. Rivalry matchup and high drama.

Beyond that, the schedule rolls into late February with road at LSU, road at Alabama, home vs Ole Miss, home vs Missouri, and road at Kentucky wrapped up before the SEC Tournament.