Kentucky Ends Skid with Victory Over South Carolina
In a hard-fought SEC clash, Kentucky managed to halt their three-game losing streak with a 72-63 victory over South Carolina. This win marked their first triumph in Columbia since the 2021-22 season, a testament to their resilience and determination.
Key Performers
Kentucky's Denzel Aberdeen led the charge with 19 points, while Mouhamed Dioubate contributed 12 points and a crucial block in the closing moments. The Wildcats showcased their depth, with Andrija Jelavic adding 11 points and Collin Chandler chipping in with 10. Malachi Moreno was a force on the boards, pulling down 11 rebounds, helping Kentucky dominate the glass with a 48-28 rebounding advantage.
On the South Carolina side, Meechie Johnson was a standout, leading the Gamecocks with 18 points, six assists, four rebounds, and three steals. His all-around performance kept South Carolina competitive, but it wasn't enough to overcome Kentucky's balanced attack. Mike Sharavjamts and Elijah Strong also contributed double figures with 12 and 11 points, respectively.
Game Breakdown
The Wildcats built a solid lead in the first half, capitalizing on South Carolina's shooting woes. The Gamecocks struggled to find their rhythm, hitting just 25% of their shots before halftime. However, a strong start to the second half saw South Carolina tie the game at 48 with eight minutes remaining, igniting hopes of a comeback.
Despite this surge, Kentucky responded with poise. After Mike Sharavjamts narrowed the gap to 59-57 with a clutch three-pointer, Kentucky answered with a decisive 10-point run. Dioubate’s pivotal block set up Chandler’s three-pointer, extending the lead and sealing the game.
Notable Stats
South Carolina's shooting struggles were evident as they hit only 36.8% from the field. Meanwhile, Kentucky capitalized on turnovers, scoring 18 points off 11 forced turnovers and dominating fastbreak points 26-7.
What’s Next?
South Carolina will look to regroup as they head to Athens for a matchup against Georgia. The Gamecocks aim to bounce back and improve their conference standing in the rematch against the Bulldogs.
Kentucky's victory not only ended a skid but also showcased their potential to make a strong finish in the SEC. With performances like this, the Wildcats are positioning themselves as a formidable opponent as the season progresses.