Top-Ranked South Carolina vs. LSU: Staley and Mulkey Clash in Poll Showdown

This Valentine’s Day, the South Carolina Gamecocks and LSU Tigers will clash in a highly anticipated women’s basketball matchup in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Currently, South Carolina holds the No. 3 position in the AP Top 25, while LSU sits at No. 6. The game is set to begin at 8:30 p.m. ET on February 14 at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center, marking a rare Saturday night game for women’s basketball.

Current Season Performance

Entering this showdown, the Gamecocks have a record of 24 wins and 2 losses, including 10 wins and 1 loss in the SEC. They are fresh off a decisive 93-50 victory over the Tennessee Volunteers.

On the other hand, the Tigers have a record of 22 wins and 3 losses, with 8 wins and 3 losses in the SEC. LSU recently defeated Auburn 77-44 but faced a setback against Texas, which caused them to drop from No. 5 to No. 6 in the rankings.

Key Players to Watch

• MiLaysia Fulwiley: A standout guard who transferred to LSU after playing under Dawn Staley at South Carolina.

Historical Context of the Matchup

Last season, South Carolina triumphed over LSU with a score of 66-56 in Columbia. The Gamecocks handed the Tigers their first loss of that season. Historically, South Carolina holds a 21-22 record against LSU but has been dominant under coach Dawn Staley, boasting an 18-5 record in her tenure. The Gamecocks have won the last 17 meetings between the two teams.

Coaching Rivalry

Dawn Staley has a favorable 6-2 record against Kim Mulkey, the head coach for LSU. Notably, five of Staley’s victories against Mulkey came in the past four seasons, including two wins during the current 2023-24 season. Prior to joining LSU, Mulkey had a 2-1 advantage over Staley during her time at Baylor.

Upcoming Poll Insights

The USA TODAY Coaches poll will be published on February 10, providing an updated look at how both teams are faring in rankings leading up to this critical matchup.

This game promises to be an exciting showdown between two top-ranked programs and their accomplished coaches, Staley and Mulkey. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely, as both teams aim to reinforce their standings in the SEC and nationally.