South Carolina Basketball: Three thumbs up, three thumbs down vs. Florida
By Kevin Miller
South Carolina Basketball vs. Florida Gators
Thumbs Up 1: Great Guards
The Gamecock guards were brilliant offensively against Florida. Te-Hina Paopao shot 6-8/4-5/1-1 for 17 points. Raven Johnson scored 16 points on 6-9 shooting (and 4-4 from the line). The two guards combined for 9 assists, as well. Wing Bree Hall added an efficient 15 points, and freshman MiLaysia Fulwiley added 10 points on 50% shooting.
If the Gamecocks are that efficient, they will be tough to beat moving forward.
South Carolina Basketball vs. Florida Gators
Thumbs Up 2: Post Proficiency
South Carolina basketball has been known for years for its dominant post players. A'ja Wilson and Aliyah Boston are the two biggest names who have owned the paint in recent years, but Kamilla Cardoso is making her mark, as well. She put up another double-double on Thursday, including 15 rebounds. Chloe Kitts didn't score much but grabbed 7 rebounds in just 14 minutes. Unsung hero Ashlyn Watkins continued her strong play as she swatted 6 shots and grabbed 8 rebounds.
The best post defense team in college basketball plays in Columbia, South Carolina, and that down-low dominance traveled well against the Gators.
South Carolina Basketball vs. Florida Gators
Thumbs Up 3: Free Throws (!!!)
Something rare happened on Thursday night in Gainesville: the South Carolina basketball team had a really good night at the free throw line. Shooting over 85% (13-15), the Gamecocks made more freebies than the Gators attempted.
Carolina has struggled most of this season with their foul shooting, but if they can consistently be an above-average team from the line (average hovers right around 70%), that drastically changes the offense. Kamilla Cardoso, Chloe Kitts, and Kamilla Cardoso are among the players who draw the most fouls in the SEC. If USC makes those shots, they will add a few points per game to their already-impressive 91 points per game.