Gamecocks Control Their Own Destiny Despite Fall in AP Poll

South Carolina men's basketball program falls in the AP Poll but still control their own destiny.

After a rough week for Head Coach Lamont Paris and his team, losing to Auburn and a heartbreaking loss to LSU this past weekend. The Gamecocks see a drop in the rankings; however, their destiny is still their own hands, and this isn't any time to panic. With the Gamecocks being dropped 9 spots and now ranked as the 20th ranked team in the AP Poll, there are still important games to be played.

LSU Tigers forward Jalen Reed drives around Gamecock forward Collin Murray-Boyles (02-17-24) / Jeff Blake-USA TODAY Sports

First, let's take a trip down memory lane, where Coach Paris and South Carolina were picked to finish dead last in the SEC. Not many, including the most faithful of fans, thought they would see Carolina in the position they are currently in, and that's ok to admit. The turnaround this program has seen from year one to year two has gotten lost in two games for some when, in reality, the fantastic year that year two has become is far from over. 

Fast forward to today, where the Gamecocks sit with a record of 21-5(9-4) and currently would be the 4th seed in the SEC tournament. Five games remain against Ole Miss and Texas A&M on the road for the next two, followed by hosting Florida and Tennessee at home before their final match against Mississippi State. 

It doesn't get any easier from here. However, the ball is still in Carolina's court, and big games are still to be won. The bye week couldn't have been better for this squad, and they can return to work Saturday at Ole Miss.

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