LIVE FROM NASHVILLE: SOUTH CAROLINA DOMINATES VANDERBILT 82-54!
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – It’s another statement win for No. 6 South Carolina! MiLaysia Fulwiley was simply unstoppable, pouring in 24 points as the Gamecocks cruised past Vanderbilt 82-54 on Sunday.
South Carolina (25-3, 13-1 SEC) extends its dominance over the Commodores, winning its 17th straight matchup in this series – a streak that dates back to 2011!
Gamecocks in Control from the Start
The tone was set early as Te-Hina Paopao came out firing, scoring the first seven points of the game. She and Fulwiley combined for 18 in the first quarter, giving South Carolina a commanding 24-11 lead after ten minutes.
Vanderbilt (19-9, 6-8 SEC) fought back in the second, outscoring South Carolina 14-11 to cut the halftime deficit to 35-25, but the Gamecocks had too much firepower. They exploded for 21 third-quarter points, stretching the lead to 56-37 heading into the final period.
Fulwiley, Edwards, and Paopao Shine
- MiLaysia Fulwiley tied her career-high 24 points, dropping 15 in the first half on a scorching 6-of-9 shooting in just 13 minutes. It’s the second-most points by a Gamecock this season!
- Joyce Edwards was a force inside, securing her third double-double with 17 points and 12 rebounds. She dominated the glass, pulling down a career-high 10 offensive boards – eight of them in the first half alone!
- Te-Hina Paopao finished with 13 points, including a red-hot 7-point burst to open the game. She also dished out a team-high four assists and racked up an SEC career-high three steals.
South Carolina’s Depth is Scary
The Gamecocks’ bench once again outscored their opponent, putting up 56 points—more than Vanderbilt’s total of 54! This marks the ninth time this season South Carolina’s reserves have won the scoring battle.
South Carolina also owned the paint, outscoring Vanderbilt 48-16 inside. The defense was relentless, forcing 17 Commodore turnovers while keeping Vandy scoreless in transition (19-0 in fast-break points).
Blakes, Pierre Lead Vandy
Despite the loss, Mikayla Blakes—coming off her historic 55-point performance at Auburn—led Vanderbilt with 19 points, while Khamil Pierre added 14 points and 10 rebounds.
Next up? The Gamecocks look to keep rolling as they head into the final stretch of the SEC season. Stay tuned!
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