South Carolina Faces Mississippi State in High-Stakes SEC Showdown

COLUMBIA, S.C. – South Carolina (10-9, 0-6 SEC) will host No. 14 Mississippi State (15-4, 3-3 SEC) at Colonial Life Arena on Saturday at 1 p.m. ET. The Gamecocks, still seeking their first SEC win, face their eighth top-25 opponent this season in a game that also highlights community initiatives, including a Fight For Literacy campaign and a food drive.

The Bulldogs, led by Coach Chris Jans, enter the game with a nearly full roster. Guard Shakeel Clary remains sidelined due to injury, but key players like Denzel Kugel and Claudell Harris are expected to play. Kugel, who scored 21 points in a recent overtime win against Ole Miss, and Harris, who contributed significantly in the same game, will be crucial for Mississippi State’s success.

South Carolina, however, faces potential setbacks. Forward Collin Murray-Boyles, the team’s leading scorer with 15.3 points per game, is listed as questionable. Guard Meechie Johnson, the team’s second-leading scorer, is probable, while Myles Shute is out. The Gamecocks struggled in their previous meeting with Mississippi State, losing 85-50 on Jan. 4, 2025.

The game will be broadcast on the SEC Network, with Roy Philpott and Perry Clark providing commentary. Fans are encouraged to participate in the non-perishable food drive, with collection bins available at all entrances. The Gamecock football team, led by 2024 SEC Coach of the Year Shane Beamer, will also be honored at halftime.

South Carolina looks to rebound from a tough season, while Mississippi State aims to improve its SEC record. The Bulldogs have won 11 of the last 16 matchups against the Gamecocks, adding pressure to an already high-stakes game.