The South Carolina men’s hoops team (14-10, 5-5 SEC) travel to Bud Walton Arena in Fayetteville to face Arkansas (13-12, 6-4 SEC) at 9pm. The Gamecocks must win this game to breathe new life into their NCAA tourney dream; if not then truly it is time to consider winning enough games to make the NIT.
The Gamecocks look to break a four-game road losing streak at Arkansas. The Gamecocks are 1-7 in road games this season, including a 1-4 mark in conference games. Carolina averages 63.1 points per game in overall away contests.
This match-up will be fun to watch with USC PG Devan Downey on the floor and the Razorbacks star guard Courtney Fortson. Fortson is back playing after a suspension and is doing quite well. He is much like Devan, whereas the offense flows through him.
Arkansas leads the all-time series 12-9, including a 6-3 advantage in games played in Fayetteville. South Carolina has won two straight in the series, and three of the last five meetings.
Last Time they met:
Downey lead South Carolina’s overtime win over the Razorbacks in Columbia last season. He led four Gamecocks in double figures with 25 points, including four free throws in the final 12 seconds to secure the Gamecock win – 82-78.
What to look for:
Devan must bring his “A” game. When he is on then the gamecocks stand a chance at winning. Carolina has to involve the post players more and not shoot 30+ 3-pointers this time out. I know Raley-Ross and Galloway are always looking to drain a three ball but how about think a little before we just start airing them out. The Gamecocks must move the ball around and get good looks. Big Sam Muldrow has to come alive this game as last time out he was quiet and we all saw what happens – a loss to UGA. He has to play big down low and get some easy baskets while blocking some shots. The Gamecocks must slow Fortson but also watch for their front line guys – Marshawn Powell and Michael Washington. The USC guards have to play strong perimeter defense as the Razorbacks likes to shoot three’s also and be ready for the Arkansas press.
Gamecocks need to do 3 things to win:
1. Capitalize off Arkansas turnovers
2. USC guards must penetrate the lane not just spot shoot. Need to get to the charity stripe as well.
3. The Gamecocks must hold their ground in the rebound battle while getting some easy points off offensive rebounds.
Prediction: USC 68 Arkansas 61
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