Game Details:
- Date & Time: Thursday, January 9, 2025, at 5:00 PM EST
- Location: Colonial Life Arena, Columbia, SC
- Broadcast: ESPN2
Team Overview:
- South Carolina Gamecocks: The Gamecocks enter the matchup with a 14-1 record, including a 2-0 mark in Southeastern Conference (SEC) play. They are riding a nine-game winning streak and are coming off a decisive 95-68 victory over Mississippi State. In that game, guard Tessa Johnson led the team with a career-high 22 points.
- Texas A&M Aggies: The Aggies hold an 8-6 record and are 1-1 in SEC play. They are coming off a significant win against No. 25 Ole Miss, showcasing their potential to compete with ranked opponents.
Key Storylines:
- Impact of Ashlyn Watkins' injury: The Gamecocks will be without junior forward Ashlyn Watkins, who suffered a season-ending ACL injury during the Mississippi State game. Head coach Dawn Staley has emphasized the need for the team to adapt.
- Guard play: With the loss of Watkins, the Gamecocks' guards are expected to play a pivotal role. Te-Hina Paopao, who averages 11.6 points per game and shoots 42.6% from beyond the arc, will be crucial in maintaining the team's offensive efficiency.
- Texas A&M's resilience: Despite a challenging season, the Aggies have demonstrated resilience, notably in their recent victory over Ole Miss. Their ability to compete against ranked teams will be a key factor in this matchup.
What to Watch For:
- South Carolina's depth: The Gamecocks' bench has been a significant strength this season, contributing to fast breaks and maintaining defensive pressure. The absence of Watkins may lead to increased responsibilities for bench players, making their performance crucial.
- Defensive rebounding: South Carolina leads the SEC with a .784 defensive rebounding percentage in conference games. Maintaining this dominance on the boards will be essential against a Texas A&M team that has struggled with turnovers.
How to Watch:
As the Gamecocks aim to continue their undefeated SEC run, this matchup against Texas A&M presents an opportunity to showcase their depth and resilience in the face of adversity.