Game Balls: South Carolina at No. 5 Tennessee

South Carolina men's basketball pulled off another upset of a Top 5 ranked team, and it was largely due to the play of three key contributors.

In what can only be described as a stunning continuation of their David-versus-Goliath narrative, the South Carolina Gamecocks have again toppled a Goliath of college basketball, the 5th-ranked Tennessee Volunteers. With this latest victory, the Gamecocks are longer turning heads, but rather adding others to their bandwagon. In recognition of their monumental win, we're awarding three-game balls to the players who exemplified heart, skill, and sheer determination on the court.

1) Ta'Lon Cooper

Cooper's name has echoed in clutch moments the past several games. When the pressure mounted tonight, Cooper was the beacon of composure for the Gamecocks, amassing 18 points and draining pivotal shots that kept his team in the driver's seat. His ability to perform under fire has been a recurring theme these past weeks, and his big-time shots have now become a signature of the Gamecocks' upset trend.

Ta'Lon Cooper shooting (and hitting) a three against Tennessee guard Zakai Zeigler late in the second half (30th Jan., 2024) / Randy Sartin | USA Today Network

2) Myles Stute

Stute triumphantly returned tonight from the injury he suffered two weeks ago against Georgia and demonstrated that timing is everything. With 13 points to his name, Stute's presence was felt beyond the scoreboard. His clutch free throws in the game's dying moments helped ice a victory that might have otherwise slipped through their fingers. The steadiness of his hands at the charity stripe was a testament to his focus and readiness to contribute immediately upon his return.

3) BJ Mack

Mack showcased the kind of perseverance that coaches dream of. Despite a challenging night where his usual shooting touch eluded him, Mack found alternative ways to impact the game. He drew fouls in the paint and capitalized at the free-throw line, hitting seven of his eight shots at the charity stripe. His ability to adjust and contribute underscores the adaptability and resilience of this Gamecock team.

With each upset, the Gamecocks aren't just winning games but issuing a statement. They've emerged as the team that can't be overlooked, the squad that rises to the occasion against all odds. The national conversation has shifted; now, it's time to listen. The Gamecocks have proven they're a force to be reckoned with, and as March Madness looms, they're showing no signs of slowing down.

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