This week in South Carolina women's basketball

South Carolina women’s basketball had a big week last week. Knocking of two top-10 teams (one on the road) further improved the Gamecocks’ elite resume, and if USC continues its winning ways, it won’t be long before Dawn Staley’s team is back at the top of the rankings where they belong. Below is a brief overview of last week and a look forward to the week to come for the Gamecocks.

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South Carolina Gamecocks defeat Duke Blue Devils in SEC/ACC Challenge

Playing against No. 8 Duke, South Carolina got off to a hot start. The Gamecocks got up by 16 points by the end of the 1st quarter and 20 points by halftime. USC let Duke cut into the lead with a slack 4th quarter, but the outcome was never in doubt.

Chloe Kitts was the team’s top performer in this one. The junior logged an impressive 21-point, 11-rebound double-double in which she also blocked two shots and went 9-for-14 from the field. Te-Hina Paopao went 3-for-4 from the perimeter, as well.

10 Gamecocks played at least 15 minutes in this game. Despite posting a poor assist-to-turnover ratio and losing the rebounding battle, the Gamecocks were comfortably ahead the entire contest.

Result: South Carolina won 81-70.

South Carolina Gamecocks dominate TCU Horned Frogs

Dawn Staley’s team didn’t let things get close against TCU. In a dominant effort from start to finish, Carolina whipped a top-10 squad on the road. South Carolina shot 40% from outside (including three makes from Raven Johnson) and better than 50% from the floor.

The Gamecock defense was ferocious most of the day. USC’s guards forced starting TCU guards Hailey Van Lith and Madison Conner into 12 combined turnovers and 8-for-25 shooting.

MiLaysia Fulwiley also bounced back in this one, putting up 20 points on better than 50% shooting. She also added three steals and a block as she had her best defensive performance of the year. Ashlyn Watkins also threw down a dunk.

Result: South Carolina won 85-52.

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What’s coming this week for South Carolina women’s basketball

After the big performances last week, South Carolina now gets a little bit of a break. The Gamecocks have just one game over the next 10 days.

The Gamecocks will return home to Colonial Life Arena to play the South Florida Bulls, the first of three lighter games ahead of the start of SEC conference play. SEC Network will air the 2:00 p.m. Sunday afternoon contest. Fans also can stream the game on the ESPN app.

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