Georgia Bulldogs Aim for NCAA Tournament Bid in South Carolina Clash

COLUMBIA, South Carolina — The Georgia Bulldogs basketball team is on a mission as they face the South Carolina Gamecocks at 6 p.m. Tuesday, determined to secure a coveted NCAA Tournament bid. With a current record of 17-11 and 6-10 in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), the Bulldogs arrive in Columbia riding a two-game win streak, having recently achieved significant upsets against then-No. 3 Florida and Texas.

Under the leadership of head coach Mike White, Georgia is striving for its first March Madness appearance since 2015. With two remaining SEC contests before the conference tournament, the pressure is on for the Bulldogs to solidify their place in the postseason. Earlier this season, Georgia overcame South Carolina, defeating them 71-60 in Athens. Despite this, the Gamecocks (12-17, 2-14) are known for their resilience at home.

South Carolina recently showcased their potential by claiming victories in their last two home games against NCAA Tournament hopefuls Texas and Arkansas. Their previous near misses against top-ranked teams demonstrate a pattern of competitiveness, having fallen just short against No. 1 Auburn and Florida.

At the forefront of the Gamecocks’ strategy is sophomore forward Collin Murray-Boyles, who recently posted a career-high of 35 points against Arkansas. His formidable presence poses a challenge for any opponent. “His teammates do a good job of allowing him to be the focal point playing around them,” White acknowledged after a recent Texas victory. “They run good actions, they guard the crap out of you; they’re really solid and physical.”

Murray-Boyles is also a key player on the boards, averaging 8.4 rebounds per game, adding to the Gamecocks’ physical style of play. Despite struggling offensively in various categories, South Carolina has proven effective in executing strategies to earn fouls and capitalize on free throws.

In their earlier matchup, Georgia successfully contained Murray-Boyles to 18 points, with standout freshman Asa Newell contributing significantly with 17 points and 10 rebounds. Newell is expected to play a crucial role again, alongside 6-11 freshman Somto Cyril in defending against Murray-Boyles and South Carolina’s guards.

Additionally, the Bulldogs are counting on the recent form of Silas Demary Jr., who has averaged over 20 points in his past six games, boasting a career-high 26 points in the most recent outing against Texas. Georgia’s three-point shooting has improved following their break, hitting 40 percent in their last three games.

The historical rivalry shows Georgia with a record of 59-64 against South Carolina, including a winning effort during their last visit to Columbia, where they clinched a 74-69 victory. As the Bulldogs prepare for tonight’s clash, they recognize the need for a strong performance to enhance their NCAA Tournament prospects.