The #6 South Carolina Gamecocks secured a dominant 82-54 victory over Vanderbilt, improving their record to 25-3, while Vanderbilt fell to 19-9. The Gamecocks controlled the game with strong rebounding, efficient scoring inside, and solid defensive play, maintaining their position as one of the top teams in the nation.
Game Stats Breakdown
1. Team Shooting Efficiency & Offensive Execution:
- Field Goals: 30-65 (46.2%)
- Efficient overall, with strong scoring inside.
- Three-Point Shooting: 5-19 (26.3%)
- Below average from beyond the arc, but not a major issue due to dominance in the paint.
Key Takeaway: South Carolina relied on high-percentage shots rather than three-pointers, helping them build and maintain a lead.
2. Rebounding Dominance & Defensive Control:
- Total Rebounds: 47
- Defensive Rebounds: Controlled the boards, limiting Vanderbilt's second chances.
- Key Rebounders:
- J. Edwards (#8) – 12 rebounds
- M. Dauda (#30) – 7 rebounds
- C. Kitts (#21) – 6 rebounds
Key Takeaway: South Carolina crushed Vanderbilt on the boards, using their size and effort to control possessions.
Top Individual Performances
🔥 MiLaysia Fulwiley (#12) – 24 Points, 10-15 FG, 2-4 3PT, 4 REB, 1 AST, 4 PF
- Most efficient scorer, hitting 66.7% of her shots.
- Knocked down two three-pointers, despite the team struggling from deep.
- Aggressive playstyle led to 4 fouls, something to watch in tighter matchups.
💪 J. Edwards (#8) – 17 Points, 12 Rebounds, 6-12 FG, 3 AST, 3 PF
- Double-double performance
- Dominated the boards with a game-high 12 rebounds
- Efficient shooter (50%)
🎯 Te-Hina Paopao (#0) – 13 Points, 4-10 FG, 2-4 3PT, 3 REB, 4 AST
- Strong facilitator with 4 assists.
- One of the better three-point shooters (2-4).
Supporting Contributions & Bench Impact
South Carolina’s depth played a key role in keeping Vanderbilt from gaining momentum.
- C. Kitts (#21): 4 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists
- R. Johnson (#25): 4 points, 4 rebounds
- M. McDaniel (#1): 5 points, 2 assists
- T. Johnson (#5): 5 points, 1-4 3PT
- M. Dauda (#30): 3 points, 7 rebounds
Key Takeaway: Even with lower-scoring games, the bench provided rebounding, defense, and playmaking to keep South Carolina in control.
Key Strengths in This Game
✔️ Rebounding: 47 total rebounds compared to Vanderbilt’s much lower number (not shown in this image).
✔️ Balanced Scoring: Four players in double figures, led by Fulwiley (24) and Edwards (17).
✔️ Paint Presence: Dominated inside with high-percentage shots and second-chance opportunities.
Areas for Improvement
⚠️ Three-Point Shooting: 26.3% (5-19) → Needs improvement for tougher matchups.
⚠️ Fouls: Some key players had high foul counts (e.g., Fulwiley with 4).
South Carolina overpowered Vanderbilt with rebounding, inside scoring, and overall efficiency, cruising to an easy victory. While three-point shooting remains a weakness, the Gamecocks’ ability to control the glass and dominate inside makes them a serious threat heading into the postseason.