LIVE FROM COLUMBIA, S.C. – The streak is over! After 54 long days and 13 consecutive losses, the South Carolina Gamecocks (11-16, 1-13 SEC) finally broke through with a dominant 84-69 victory over Texas on Saturday night.
South Carolina had been knocking on the door for weeks, suffering six losses by five points or fewer. But when the final buzzer sounded in Colonial Life Arena, the Gamecocks had secured their first SEC win since March 9, 2024 and their first victory overall since December 30, 2024, against Presbyterian.
How It Happened
For all the struggles South Carolina endured during this losing skid, the first half against Texas was a masterpiece. The Gamecocks flipped the script, playing the kind of smothering defense that other SEC teams had used against them.
The Longhorns couldn’t find a rhythm, shooting just 29.6% from the field (8-for-29) and making only one of six attempts from beyond the arc. South Carolina pounced early with an 8-0 run, holding Texas scoreless for nearly five minutes.
Head coach Lamont Paris had been pushing Collin Murray-Boyles to take more shots, and on Saturday, he answered the call. Murray-Boyles erupted in the first half with 16 points, eight rebounds, and three blocks, setting the tone for the night. Jordan Butler also contributed on defense with a key block before halftime.
On offense, the Gamecocks were careful with the ball, committing just two turnovers in the first 20 minutes. They also capitalized at the free throw line, going 14-for-16 in the first half. A late 8-0 run in the final 1:24 sent South Carolina into the locker room with a commanding 40-22 lead—Texas’ lowest first-half point total in SEC play this season.
Even with such a strong first half, the Gamecocks knew they couldn’t let up. Their lead quickly stretched to 20 points within two minutes after the break, but Texas wasn’t done fighting.
With under six minutes left, the Longhorns caught fire, making eight of their last 10 shots and going on an 11-1 run to cut the deficit to 12. However, South Carolina remained in control, forcing Texas into late fouls and converting enough free throws to keep their lead safe. The Gamecocks closed it out in style, securing their first SEC victory of the season.
Key Takeaways
Let CMB Cook: This was exactly the performance Collin Murray-Boyles needed to have. He’s been a team-first player all season, but Saturday showed why he must take charge. His 22-point, 9-of-16 shooting performance in just 27 minutes was the driving force behind the Gamecocks’ victory.
Finally Over the Hump: Thirteen straight losses take a toll, but South Carolina stayed the course. This win was a testament to their resilience. Even if it’s their only SEC victory this season, it’s a big one.
Stat of the Game
34-of-45 – In a game constantly stopped by whistles, South Carolina made 34 of its 45 free throw attempts (75.6%). While not their best shooting night, their ability to get to the line and convert played a huge role in maintaining their lead.
Turning Point
It happened early, but holding Texas to 22 first-half points was the moment that sealed this game. South Carolina’s defense suffocated the Longhorns, allowing the Gamecocks to build a commanding lead they never relinquished.
Up Next
The Gamecocks now head on the road to face No. 15 Missouri on Tuesday night. Tip-off is set for 9 p.m. ET on SEC Network.
