The South Carolina Gamecocks men’s basketball team will officially begin its 118th season on Tuesday night with a game against North Carolina A&T. This highly anticipated opener will take place at 7 p.m. (ET) at the Colonial Life Arena in Columbia, South Carolina. Fans can enter starting at 6 p.m., with the first 500 students receiving free pizza and the first 750 receiving T-shirts.
Season Preview
This season features significant changes for the Gamecocks, with 12 players not returning from the previous year. However, the team benefits from the return of All-SEC guard Meechie Johnson, who transferred back from Ohio State, and guard Eli Sparkman, who returns from studying abroad.
Additionally, the roster includes five new transfers and a five-man freshman class. Eli Ellis, one noteworthy freshman, recently scored 23 points and hit five three-pointers in an exhibition game against NC State on October 26. This incoming class ranks as one of the largest in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), tied for second place with Auburn and Tennessee.
Coaching Leadership
Coach Lamont Paris begins his fourth season at the helm. He was recognized as the 2024 SEC Coach of the Year, following a remarkable turnaround last season. His squad’s improvement is noted as the best in program history, achieving a 15-win turnaround.
Game Information
- Time: 7 p.m. (ET)
- Venue: Colonial Life Arena
- Television: SEC Network+
- Play-by-Play Announcer: Dave Weinstein
- Analyst: John Williams
- Radio: Gamecock Radio Network (107.5 The Game)
Previous Matchup
The Gamecocks lead the all-time series against NC A&T with a record of 1-0. Their last encounter resulted in a 91-54 victory on December 30, 2014, with all five starters scoring in double figures.
Team Statistics
Under Coach Paris, the Gamecocks have shown strong statistics:
- 11-1: Record when shooting 50% or better.
- 40-9: Record when holding opponents under 70 points.
- 5-0: Unbeaten when achieving 20 or more assists.
- 274: Three-pointers made last season, a program record.
Upcoming Schedule
Following the opener against NC A&T, the Gamecocks will host Southern Miss on Sunday, November 9, with a scheduled tip-off at 6:30 p.m. (ET).
