Columbia Sports News

QUICK TAKE What Gamecocks men’s basketball game is scheduled this weekend? Host the No. 18/20 Georgia Bulldogs in a critical SEC showdown on Saturday, January 6, 2026, at 2 p.m. ET at Colonial Life Arena in Columbia, SC. How have the South Carolina Gamecocks performed recently? Secured a significant road victory against LSU, bringing their overall record to 10-5 (1-1 SEC). Their disciplined defense is a consistent strength, with a strong record when limiting opponents’ scoring and shooting percentages. What are the key strengths of the No. 18/20 Georgia Bulldogs team? Feature the nation’s leading high-scoring offense, averaging 97.9 points per game, and excel in blocks and fast break points. They boast an impressive 13-2 overall record, despite a recent loss to Florida. How does this high-stakes game benefit the local economy and community in Columbia, SC? Contribute significantly to the local economy by attracting numerous visitors, boosting businesses like restaurants and hotels. The athletic programs, supported by private investment and student-athlete community service, enhance regional economic vitality and community engagement. What is the historical matchup record between the Gamecocks and Bulldogs? Lead the all-time series against Georgia with a record of 64-62. South Carolina holds a strong home advantage, with a 38-20 record in games played in Columbia. Columbia, SC – January 10, 2026 | By Derrick Vaughn The South Carolina Gamecocks men’s basketball team faces No. 18/20 Georgia at Colonial Life Arena, aiming to build on their recent momentum in the SEC. After a significant road win against LSU, the Gamecocks look to engage fans in this crucial match. Georgia arrives with a high-scoring offense, presenting a challenge for South Carolina. The game is expected to significantly impact the local economy and underscores the importance of community support for athletic programs. Gamecocks Host No. 18/20 Georgia in Critical SEC Showdown The University of South Carolina Gamecocks men’s basketball team returns to Colonial Life Arena on Saturday to face a formidable opponent in No. 18/20 Georgia, marking a pivotal moment in the early Southeastern Conference (SEC) season. This matchup presents an opportunity for the Gamecocks to build on recent momentum and further solidify their standing in a highly competitive league, showcasing the spirit of competition and community engagement in Columbia, SC. South Carolina (10-5, 1-1 SEC) is coming off a significant road victory against LSU, a performance that highlighted individual excellence and team resilience. Georgia (13-2, 1-1 SEC) arrives in Columbia with an impressive overall record, despite a recent loss to Florida. The contest, set for a 2 p.m. (ET) tip-off, is anticipated to draw a substantial crowd, with fan engagement initiatives planned to energize the home court advantage. Economic and Athletic Implications for Columbia High-stakes college basketball games like the Gamecocks versus Georgia matchup significantly contribute to the local economy of Columbia, SC. Events at Colonial Life Arena, the largest arena in the state, attract numerous visitors, stimulating local businesses, from restaurants and hotels to retail establishments. The University of South Carolina’s athletic programs, including men’s basketball, are vital drivers of economic activity, contributing substantially to the metropolitan area’s annual impact. This flow of tourism and increased local spending underscores the value of strategic investment in athletic programs and the role of private initiative and community support in fostering regional economic vitality. The consistent fan engagement for Gamecock athletics, evidenced by strong attendance figures for both men’s and women’s basketball, translates into tangible economic benefits and amplified visibility for the city and state. Building Program Success Through Community and Investment The sustained success and growth of University of South Carolina athletics are supported by a combination of university programs, private investment, and dedicated community efforts. The Gamecock Club, for instance, provides avenues for donors to support capital projects, scholarships, and operating expenses beyond general memberships, reflecting the impact of private initiative in sports development. Beyond financial contributions, student-athletes at the University of South Carolina demonstrate a strong commitment to community service. In the 2023-2024 academic year, Gamecock student-athletes dedicated 4,460 hours to community service, showcasing their commitment to responding to local community needs. This engagement fosters a sense of responsibility and connects the athletic programs more deeply with the community that supports them, highlighting the value of self-reliance and civic duty. This ethos of giving back, ingrained in the athletic programs, illustrates how personal perseverance extends beyond the playing field, strengthening the community fabric. Gamecocks’ Recent Performance and Strategic Outlook South Carolina enters Saturday’s contest following a 78-68 road victory over LSU, a game where junior forward Elijah Strong delivered a career-high 30 points in just 25 minutes of play. This performance, which included Carolina making its first nine shots and six three-pointers, helped the Gamecocks secure their first Quad 1 win of the season. Redshirt junior guard Meechie Johnson contributed 19 points and six assists, while freshman guard Eli Ellis added 10 points. The Gamecocks’ defensive prowess has been a consistent factor this season. Under Head Coach Lamont Paris, South Carolina holds a 47-10 record when limiting opponents to under 70 points. Additionally, the team is 29-3 under Paris when opponents shoot below 40% from the field. These statistics underscore a disciplined approach to defense, a hallmark of responsible growth and strategic execution within the program. Georgia’s High-Octane Offense and Matchup Challenges No. 18/20 Georgia brings a high-scoring offense to Colonial Life Arena, leading the nation in scoring with an average of 97.9 points per game. The Bulldogs also rank highly in blocks (7.9 per game) and fast break points (25.9 per game). Their roster, featuring eight players 6-foot-8 or taller, allows them to play at a fast tempo and excel in transition. Georgia’s scoring is led by Cal transfer guard Jeremiah Wilkinson, who averages 17.2 points per game, supported by junior guard Blue Cain averaging 15.1 points, 5.3 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 1.9 steals per game. The Bulldogs will look to bounce back from a 92-77 road loss to Florida earlier in the week. The historical series between South Carolina and Georgia stands at 64-62 in favor of the Gamecocks, with South Carolina holding a 38-20 advantage in games played in Columbia. Looking Ahead: A Test of Initiative This Saturday’s contest is more than just another game; it is a test of strategic planning, individual initiative, and collective effort. The Gamecocks’ remaining strength of schedule is ranked No. 5 in the nation by the ESPN Basketball Power Index, indicating a challenging path ahead within the SEC. Overcoming such formidable opponents requires not only athletic talent but also robust institutional support and community backing. Success on the court elevates the profile of the University of South Carolina athletics and brings tangible benefits to the entire Columbia area, fostering a culture of achievement and self-reliance. For those in Columbia and across the state, supporting Gamecock men’s basketball is an investment in both athletic excellence and community prosperity. Engage with the team, attend games at Colonial Life Arena, and cheer on the Gamecocks as they navigate the rigorous SEC schedule. Your support helps cultivate a winning tradition and strengthens the community spirit that defines Columbia, SC sports. Feature Table: Gamecocks vs. No. 18/20 Georgia Key Information Category South Carolina Gamecocks No. 18/20 Georgia Bulldogs Overall Record 10-5 13-2 SEC Record 1-1 1-1 Home Record 9-2 10-0 (for Georgia overall home record, specific SEC home not available) Current AP Rank Not Ranked No. 18 (AP Poll) Head Coach Lamont Paris (4th Season) Mike White (4th Season) Leading Scorer (PPG) Meechie Johnson (14.0) Jeremiah Wilkinson (17.2) Venue Colonial Life Arena, Columbia, SC Tip-off Time 2:00 PM (ET) TV Broadcast ESPN2 Series Record South Carolina leads 64-62 Gamecocks Last Result Won vs. LSU, 78-68 (Jan 6, 2026) Bulldogs Last Result Lost vs. Florida, 92-77 (Jan 6, 2026) Key Offensive Stat 80.1 PPG 97.9 PPG (1st Nationally) Key Defensive Stat 69.2 PAPG 75.2 PAPG Now Happening on X @GamecockCentral (2026-01-09 22:43): Highlights three key things to watch as South Carolina aims to continue their momentum against Georgia in the upcoming matchup. View on X @JordanDavisHill (2026-01-09 18:20): Georgia basketball is set to rebound at South Carolina; the post features insights from a local analyst on the challenges the Bulldogs face. View on X @gahoopsblog (2026-01-09 19:03): Analyzes Georgia’s edge in fast break points against South Carolina, predicting the Bulldogs will push the pace in Columbia. View on X @gahoopsblog (2026-01-09 19:03): Points out Georgia’s advantage on offensive rebounds versus South Carolina’s defense, expecting the Bulldogs to crash the boards aggressively. View on X @gahoopsblog (2026-01-09 19:03): Discusses the three-point matchup, noting South Carolina’s strong defense against threes and the importance for both teams to perform from beyond the arc. View on X @MattDowellTV (2026-01-07 02:05): Reports South Carolina’s 78-68 victory over LSU, marking their first SEC road win in a decade, with Elijah Strong scoring 30 points. View on X @Chazf_tv (2026-01-07 03:57): Covers the Gamecocks’ hot shooting night with 12 three-pointers in their SEC road win at LSU, quoting coach Lamont Paris on the team’s confidence. View on X @GamecocksShow (2026-01-09 16:46): Emphasizes the need for South Carolina to maintain three-point success against Georgia’s strong rim protection in the preview. View on X Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic HERE Resources Gamecocks Secure Key Transfer Kicker from Playoff Contender Gamecocks Dominate Arkansas, Extend SEC Perfect Start Gamecocks Carry No. 3 Ranking to Arkansas for Showdown Gamecock Tight End Michael Smith Transfers to Syracuse Gamecocks Fall to Undefeated Vanderbilt in SEC Opener Jaiden Bryant Commits to LSU Football South Carolina Football Program Gains Commitment from Elite Defensive Back South Carolina Athletics Unveils Comprehensive Sports Schedules Gamecocks Secure Dominant Win Ahead of SEC Play University of South Carolina Women’s Basketball Welcomes New Recruit

Columbia, SC, January 10, 2026 The Stewart Law Offices High School Hoops series commenced with a thrilling basketball matchup between Heathwood Hall and Hammond in Columbia, showcasing the dedication of local student-athletes. This first week’s broadcast emphasized the community’s support for high school sports and the rich rivalry between these two schools. Fans can catch future

QUICK TAKE What significant renovations have happened to Columbia’s golf courses recently? Completed in October 2025, Golden Hills Golf Course renovated its 9-hole layout with new Bermuda greens and enhanced bunkers. Similarly, LinRick Golf Course revitalized its facilities, including new Sunday Bermuda greens and an updated pro shop for improved player experience. Are new training

QUICK TAKE What major changes are happening in Columbia’s golf scene? Experiencing significant transformations, Columbia’s golf landscape is undergoing substantial course renovations, expansions, and the introduction of modern training facilities to solidify its reputation as a top golf destination. The city will also host a professional Korn Ferry Tour event. Which local golf courses are

QUICK TAKE What is the overall outlook for golf in South Carolina for 2026? Anticipates an even stronger season, building on past successes with an enhanced overall experience. The prevailing sentiment is for “more of the same, only better.” What improvements are expected for South Carolina’s golf landscape in 2026? Aims to enhance the overall