South Carolina Tops Mississippi State 97-89 in Men’s Basketball

South Carolina defeated Mississippi State 97-89 Saturday at Colonial Life Arena, snapping a seven-game losing streak. The Gamecocks shot 55.4% from the field and made 12 of 24 three-pointers, marking SEC season highs in those categories, according to the school’s release.

Mississippi State scored the opening six points but struggled to maintain the lead as South Carolina rallied with 10 consecutive baskets late in the first half. The Gamecocks led 46-39 at halftime and maintained their advantage throughout the second half, holding off a late Bulldogs rally.

Mississippi State had five players score in double figures, led by Quincy Ballard with 15 points and 10 rebounds. Jayden Epps and Josh Hubbard each scored 13. Hubbard, starting his 77th straight game, added to his career points total and moved into sixth place on the school’s all-time scoring list with 1,835 points.

Other notable performances included Shawn Jones Jr. with six points and five rebounds, and Quincy Ballard’s second double-double of the season. The Bulldogs also out-rebounded South Carolina, 37-32, and scored 23 points off second-chance opportunities.

Mississippi State’s bench outscored South Carolina’s 33-22, with Ja’Borri McGhee and Sergej Macura contributing 12 and 10 points, respectively. McGhee also dished out seven assists, tying his career high. The Bulldogs shot 44.9% from the floor and made 10 three-pointers.

South Carolina improved to 9-5 this season after hitting 23 of 27 free throws, including 80% in the final minutes. The Gamecocks moved to 2-5 in SEC play and are now 55-20 over the past four seasons under coach Frank Martin.

Source: Original Article