In a highly anticipated SEC women's basketball showdown, the No. 2 South Carolina Gamecocks handed the No. 5 LSU Tigers their first loss of the season, defeating them 66-56 at Colonial Life Arena in Columbia, South Carolina. The Gamecocks (19-1, 7-0 SEC) won their 17th straight over LSU and all five since Kim Mulkey took over as Tigers coach.
17-STRAIGHT WINS OVER LSU FOR THE GAMECOCKS 😱 pic.twitter.com/yxHPb67gw8
— SEC Network (@SECNetwork) January 25, 2025
Shooting Performance:
Both teams struggled with their shooting percentages. LSU made 23 of 77 field goal attempts, resulting in a 29.9% shooting rate. South Carolina was slightly more efficient, converting 23 of 62 attempts for a 37.1% shooting percentage. From beyond the arc, LSU made 3 of 14 three-point attempts (21.4%), while South Carolina made 2 of 13 (15.4%). At the free-throw line, LSU was more accurate, hitting 7 of 9 attempts (77.8%), compared to South Carolina's 18 of 26 (69.2%).
Rebounding:
LSU dominated the boards, securing 51 rebounds to South Carolina's 39. The Tigers' offensive rebounding was particularly strong, with 28 offensive boards leading to 22 second-chance points. South Carolina managed 15 offensive rebounds, contributing to their 34 points in the paint.
Defensive Statistics:
South Carolina's defense was a key factor in the victory. The Gamecocks recorded 13 steals and 11 blocks, disrupting LSU's offensive flow. In contrast, LSU had 8 steals and 2 blocks. South Carolina's defensive pressure was evident in the third quarter, where they held LSU to 5-for-20 shooting. LSU's leading scorer, Flau'jae Johnson, managed just two points in the second half.
Turnovers and Fast Break Points:
South Carolina capitalized on LSU's 17 turnovers, converting them into 22 points. Both teams scored 6 points each on fast breaks, indicating a balanced transition game.
Fouls and Technical Fouls:
LSU committed 19 fouls, while South Carolina had 12. Neither team received a technical foul during the game.
Largest Lead:
South Carolina's largest lead was 13 points, while LSU's was 7 points.
This victory extends South Carolina's home winning streak to 69 games and their SEC regular-season winning streak to 54 games.
The Gamecocks' defensive prowess and efficient free-throw shooting were instrumental in overcoming LSU's rebounding advantage and securing the win.
Looking Ahead:
This victory extends South Carolina's home winning streak to 69 games. Both teams will continue their SEC campaigns, with the Gamecocks aiming to maintain momentum and the Tigers looking to rebound from their first setback of the season.