South Carolina Keeps SEC Title Hopes Alive with Commanding Win Over Ole Miss
South Carolina’s SEC regular-season title aspirations remain intact after a dominant performance against Ole Miss, powered by Sania Feagin and Chloe Kitts. The Gamecocks pulled away in the second half, proving once again why they remain one of the toughest teams in the country.
Game Recap: Starters Step Up
With the bench contributing just 24 points, the Gamecock starters took charge. Feagin and Kitts led the way as South Carolina controlled both ends of the floor, winning the rebounding battle 41-36 while tallying 20 assists, 10 steals, and 8 blocks in an all-around team effort.
Standout Performances
🔥 Sania Feagin – A Force in the Paint 🔥
Feagin was dominant, delivering put-backs, mid-range jumpers, and crucial and-1 finishes. She posted 22 points on 76% shooting (10-13), 6 rebounds, and an imposing 5 blocks, setting the tone for South Carolina.
👑 Chloe Kitts – Triple-Double Queen 👑
Kitts put on a show, recording 16 points, 13 rebounds, 10 assists, and 4 steals on an efficient 60% shooting, becoming the first Gamecock to log a triple-double against an SEC opponent. As just a sophomore, Kitts continues to evolve into a game-changing presence.
Point Guard Impact
Te-Hina Paopao and Raven Johnson led the backcourt with 9 points, 8 assists, 4 rebounds, and 4 steals, facilitating the offense and applying relentless defensive pressure.
Bench Contributions – The “Seatbelt Gang”
South Carolina’s depth remains a major weapon, with the bench adding 24 points:
- Joyce Edwards – 10 points
- MiLaysia Fulwiley – 9 points, 3 rebounds
- Tessa Johnson & Maddy McDaniel – 5 points combined
Senior Day: Honoring an Elite Class
Sunday marks a special Senior Day as Sania Feagin, Breezy Hall, and Raven Johnson—one of the most decorated classes in Gamecock women’s basketball history—are honored. Their legacy includes:
🏆 Two National Championships
🏆 Three Final Four appearances
🏆 Three SEC regular-season titles
🏆 Most wins in program history
This trio has been the foundation of Dawn Staley’s success, prioritizing team success over personal stats and embodying the culture that has kept South Carolina at the top of women’s college basketball.
Next Up: Showdown vs. Kentucky
Key Matchups to Watch
🔑 Guard Play vs. Georgia Amoore
Kentucky’s star fifth-year guard is averaging 18.9 PPG, 7 assists, and can dictate the pace. South Carolina’s defense must:
✅ Deny her the ball
✅ Apply constant pressure
✅ Force turnovers and disrupt her rhythm
🔥 Guard Play vs. Dazia Lawrence
The Wildcats’ top 3-point shooter (42.3%) is lethal from beyond the arc. The Gamecock defense must run her off the line, forcing tough, contested shots.
💪 Post Play vs. Clara Strack & Teonni Key
- Strack (15 PPG, 9.6 RPG) and Key (11.7 PPG, 8.3 RPG) bring size and scoring inside. South Carolina’s post players must deny post touches, contest shots, and dominate the boards.
- Amelia Hassett (6’3” forward) and Clara Silva (6’7” freshman center) provide additional frontcourt challenges, but South Carolina’s depth in the paint is a clear advantage.
Gamecocks’ Edge: Depth & Defense
South Carolina boasts a 12-player rotation, overwhelming opponents with fresh legs and relentless intensity. Meanwhile, Kentucky relies on just seven players, giving the Gamecocks a significant advantage in stamina, rebounding, and defensive pressure.
🔑 Keys to Victory
✔ Set the tone early – Come out aggressive and take control
✔ Defensive lockdown – Limit 3-pointers and force turnovers
✔ Dominate the glass – South Carolina thrives when winning the rebounding battle
✔ Bench production – The “Seatbelt Gang” must continue to deliver
✔ Take care of the ball – Smart ball movement and 20+ assists will be crucial
✔ Capitalize on free throws – Convert at the line to maximize scoring opportunities
Final Message: Finish Strong, Gamecocks!
With March Madness approaching, South Carolina must stay locked in. Play hard, play smart, play like champions. One last time at Colonial Life Arena before the postseason—let’s make it special!
Let’s Go Gamecocks!
