South Carolina Basketball Preview 2021

PreviewsNCAAMSEC BasketballSouth Carolina Gamecocks

Nov 5

Our South Carolina basketball preview 2021 - 22 notes that in 2017, the Gamecocks went to the Final Four. Since then, they have gone to neither the NCAA nor the NIT. Last year, the South Carolina Gamecocks (6-15 Overall, 4-12 SEC) finished 12th. After experiencing significant turnover, head coach Frank Martin (153-134 South Carolina/9 years, 270-188 Overall/14 years) has put together a team that he feels confident about. But exactly how good can they be?

Gamecocks Frontcourt

Our South Carolina basketball preview 2021 - 22 notes that this team lucked out when forward Keyshawn Bryant decided not to commit to the NBA Draft. Bryant, one of the most explosive players in the country, brings refined inside scoring and rebounding skills to the paint. Last season, he shot 48.3 percent from the floor, averaging 14.4 PPG and 5.4 RPG. Wildens Leveque proved to be an asset last season, as his minutes and output expanded. Sophomore center Tre-Vaughn Minott, a big man, has a shot at starting. He’s solid in the paint. Three transfers will play, including A.J. Wilson (George Mason), a preeminent shot-blocker and rebounder.

South Carolina Basketball Preview – Backcourt

Six players are gone from last season, including top scorer A.J. Lawson (16.6 PPG). Jermaine Couisnard, who averaged 10.1 PPG, 3.0 RPG, and 3.2 APG, has to improve on his 30.2 percent field-goal and 28.9 percent three-point success rates. Transfer Chico Carter Jr. (Murray State) starts at the point. At Murray State, he hit 42 percent of his threes and assisted on 15 percent of their scores. Wing James Reese (North Texas) can defend and hit threes. Veteran shooting guard Erik Stevenson (Wichita State and Washington) is an accomplished scorer and rebounder.