Gamecocks Host Tigers in Tuesday Showdown
On Tuesday, the South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball team is set to host the Clemson Tigers in a pivotal SC Education Lottery Palmetto Series match. The contest will tip off at 6 p.m. at Colonial Life Arena in Columbia, South Carolina, and will be broadcasted on ESPN2.
Game Information
- Doors Open: 5 p.m. (4:30 p.m. for Fast Break Pass holders)
- Teams: South Carolina Gamecocks (2-0) vs. Clemson Tigers (2-0)
Team Highlights
South Carolina Gamecocks
- Head Coach: Dawn Staley
- Top Scorer: Ta’Niya Latson / Joyce Edwards (18.5 points per game)
- Top Rebounder: Madina Okot (7.5 rebounds per game)
The Gamecocks enter this matchup with a strong offensive presence, ranked 11th nationally with an average of 104.0 points per game. Their shooting efficiency is impressive at 61.8 percent, ranking third in the nation. Additionally, South Carolina has a robust scoring margin of +53.5, placing them 18th in the country.
In terms of defense, the Gamecocks are ranked 17th nationally with an impressive 25.7 percent allowed shooting from opponents. They also excel in fast break points, averaging 34.5 per game, which constitutes 33.2 percent of their total scoring.
Clemson Tigers
- Head Coach: Shawn Poppie
- Top Scorer: Mia Moore (15.5 points per game)
- Top Rebounders: Hinds/Periman (5.5 rebounds per game)
Clemson, also entering this game with a perfect record of 2-0, aims to extend their success in this in-state rivalry.
Historical Context
The rivalry between South Carolina and Clemson dates back to the 1975-76 season. Currently, the Gamecocks lead the all-time series 36-33 and hold a commanding 14-game win streak. Under the leadership of Dawn Staley since 2008, South Carolina’s record against Clemson stands at 14-2.
Last season, the Gamecocks achieved a decisive 77-45 victory at Clemson. They outperformed their opponents in the second quarter, securing a 29-17 lead at halftime.
Significant Statistics
- 8: Number of Gamecocks playing over 15 minutes per game this season.
- 11: Raven Johnson’s assists in the Bowling Green game, the highest in the SEC this season.
- 300: A win on Tuesday would mark the Gamecocks’ 300th victory at Colonial Life Arena, which opened on November 22, 2002.
South Carolina’s roster depth showcases six players averaging double digits in scoring. Notably, all active players are shooting above 50.0 percent from the field, with four among the SEC’s top 20 in shooting percentage.
As anticipation builds for this exciting clash between the Gamecocks and the Tigers, both teams will look to assert their dominance in this critical Palmetto Series matchup.
