COLUMBIA, S.C. — In a dominant performance on Friday night, South Carolina overwhelmed South Carolina State, finishing with an impressive 86-64 victory. Jacobi Wright stood out with 20 points, hitting four shots from beyond the arc, while Collin Murray-Boyles made a significant impact, scoring 19 points and securing a personal best of 16 rebounds.

Wright’s efficiency was evident as he made seven out of ten attempts at the basket, including four of seven from three-point range. Collin Murray-Boyles showcased his scoring ability by converting 7 of 8 from the floor and 4 of 5 from the free-throw line, along with contributing four assists. This marked the sophomore’s first career double-double, enhancing his performance from last season where he achieved two consecutive double-doubles.

Jamarii Thomas added to the Gamecocks’ tally with 14 points, shooting 5-for-8, while Zachary Davis contributed with 10 points, six rebounds, and four assists. For South Carolina State (1-1), Michael Teal led the scoring with 11 points, accompanied by Wilson Dubinsky, who posted 10 points off the bench.

The Gamecocks quickly took control of the contest, starting with a 7-0 run capped by a jumper from Davis. South Carolina maintained its momentum throughout the first half, with Murray-Boyles already racking up 12 points and eight rebounds by halftime, allowing the team to take a significant 41-25 lead into the locker room.

While the Bulldogs managed to reduce the deficit to 11 points early in the second half, they were unable to close the gap further. This victory improved South Carolina’s all-time record against South Carolina State to 23-0. In their previous matchup, which marked head coach Lamont Paris’ debut season last year, the Gamecocks narrowly prevailed 79-77.

Looking ahead, South Carolina gears up for their next home game against Towson on Tuesday.