OPINION: Last Night's Game Indicative Of Strides Made In Year Two Under Lamont Paris
As the dust settles on the hardwood following a hard-fought battle between the South Carolina Gamecocks and the Tennessee Volunteers, it's natural for the fans and the team to feel the sting of defeat. However, in the grand scheme of this basketball season, not all losses are created equal. For Coach Lamont Paris and his Gamecocks, this particular loss could, and arguably should, be viewed as a testament to the team's development and growth.
The Gamecocks faced an opponent in Tennessee, a team that has established itself as an elite force in men's college basketball. Early on, the signs were ominous; South Carolina struggled, particularly in terms of shooting the basketball in the first half. Considering the circumstances surrounding this matchup, the game could have spiraled out of control in the second half. Yet, it didn't. Instead, the Gamecocks clawed their way back into contention, narrowing the gap to three points with under two minutes left to play.
Despite shooting struggles, missed layups, and atypical defense miscues, the Gamecocks managed to keep the final deficit to a mere seven points—a game that remained competitive until the final buzzer. This team has only six losses in the season, a mark that hasn't even been sniffed since the 2015-16 season. While the narrative for some regarding last night might be about missed opportunities, it shouldn't be. Instead, it should be about a program on the ascent.
Lamont Paris directs his team against the Tennessee Volunteers (03-06-2024)
Jeff Blake-USA TODAY Sports
Coach Paris has instilled a deep sense of belief in his players, a belief that has manifested in impressive results, including sold-out crowds during spring break and upset victories over powerhouses like Kentucky and Tennessee. These are not just isolated successes but signs of what the Gamecocks can achieve in the future.
This South Carolina team has proven that they are not a team that will fold under pressure but will instead rise to the challenge and give their opponents a run for their money. This tenacity, this refusal to go down without a fight, is the hallmark of a program that is looking to compete and thrive for years to come.
As the season continues, the Gamecocks' performance against Tennessee should be remembered not for the loss but for the character the team showed in the face of adversity. It's a reminder that development and growth often come through overcoming challenges, and South Carolina has demonstrated that it has both the grit and the talent to do just that.
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