South Carolina Stuns Tennessee in Upset Victory: Emerging as Underdog Contenders

by

Jan 31, 2024

In a shocking turn of events, the South Carolina Gamecocks pulled off a major upset on the road against the fifth-ranked Tennessee Volunteers, winning 63 to 59 as a 13.5-point underdog. This victory has left basketball fans and bettors alike stunned as the Gamecocks continue to prove themselves as a formidable underdog team in the world of college basketball.

Heading into this matchup, Tennessee was riding high on a four-game win streak, while South Carolina, led by head coach Lamont Paris, had been quietly making waves. The Gamecocks, now boasting an impressive 8-1 record against the spread as underdogs, have emerged victorious outright in seven of those nine games when the odds were stacked against them.

The early-season schedule seemed to favor Tennessee, who were expected to dispatch South Carolina with ease as a double-digit favorite. However, much like the recent Georgia Tech upset, where they surprised everyone as underdogs, South Carolina had other plans. They are now sitting at an impressive 18-3 overall record and a strong 6-2 conference play record. This victory was no fluke; it showcased their ability to compete at the highest level.

What makes this win even more remarkable is that South Carolina managed to secure the victory despite shooting only 33% from the floor. It’s a rarity to defeat a top-five team on their home court with such a low shooting percentage, but the Gamecocks’ tenacious defense and their ability to adapt to Tennessee’s style of play played a pivotal role in their success.

Now, with a stellar 18-3 record and a 6-2 conference record, South Carolina is on the brink of entering the AP Top 25 rankings. Their remarkable journey from underdogs to contenders is earning them the respect they rightfully deserve. Fans and analysts are beginning to take notice of the Gamecocks, and they are poised to make a significant impact as the season unfolds.

The South Carolina Gamecocks’ victory over the Tennessee Volunteers serves as a reminder that in college basketball, anything can happen. Their resilience, determination, and ability to excel as underdogs are turning them into a team to watch out for as they aim for greater recognition and success in the world of college hoops.

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Thumbnail photo via Brianna Paciorka/News Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK

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