South Carolina Extends Winning Streak Over LSU with 79-72 Victory

On February 14, 2026, the No. 3 South Carolina Gamecocks defeated the No. 6 LSU Tigers 79-72 in a closely contested matchup at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center. This victory marked South Carolina's 18th consecutive win over LSU, further solidifying their dominance in this rivalry. The Gamecocks improved their record to 25-2 overall and 11-1 in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), while LSU fell to 22-4 and 8-4 in conference play.

No. 3 South Carolina keeps series win streak alive with victory at No. 6 LSU – Crescent City SportsThe StateUSA TodayLSU Women's Basketball vs South CarolinaThe StateLafayette Daily AdvertiserSouth Carolina dishes LSU 18th-straight lossNew York Times

The game was tightly contested, with neither team leading by more than single digits. LSU initially led 21-16 at the end of the first quarter, but South Carolina rallied to take a 41-40 lead at halftime. Key performances from Tessa Johnson, who scored 21 points, and Raven Johnson, who added a career-high 19 points, were instrumental in South Carolina's success. Madina Okot contributed significantly with a double-double, scoring 12 points and grabbing 17 rebounds.

ESPNSouth Carolina women's basketball: Gamecocks win a Valentine's Day classicThe StateNew York TimesThe StateSouth Carolina dishes LSU 18th-straight lossWWL - New Orleans NewsUSA Today

The game turned in the final moments when LSU's Flau'jae Johnson, who led her team with 21 points, missed two crucial free throws with 45 seconds remaining, allowing South Carolina to maintain a slim lead. LSU's overall struggles from the free-throw line were evident, as they finished 14-of-23 (61%), compared to South Carolina's 15-of-17 (88%). Coach Kim Mulkey of LSU emphasized the importance of free throws, stating, "Hit your free throws, you win."

Greenville NewsSouth Carolina women's basketball: Rapid Reaction - LSULafayette Daily AdvertiserNew York TimesUSA TodayESPNSouth Carolina dishes LSU 18th-straight lossFree throws haunt LSU women's basketball vs. South CarolinaWWL - New Orleans NewsNo. 3 South Carolina keeps series win streak alive with victory at No. 6 LSU – Crescent City Sports

Both teams exhibited strong offensive capabilities, but South Carolina's efficiency in critical moments proved decisive. The Gamecocks shot 42.4% from the field, while LSU managed only 40.0%, including a dismal 7-of-25 (28%) in the fourth quarter. Despite winning the rebounding battle 46-37, LSU could not capitalize on their second-chance opportunities, missing 10 layups and nine free throws throughout the game.

Greenville News

Dawn Staley, head coach of South Carolina, celebrated her 500th career victory with this win. She noted the significance of the game, stating, "This was a huge game in front of us, huge game on the road, and just a hostile environment." Conversely, Mulkey expressed frustration over her team's inability to execute down the stretch, particularly in free-throw situations.

CBS Sports

With this victory, South Carolina has positioned itself strongly for the SEC regular-season title and a favorable seed in the upcoming NCAA Tournament. The Gamecocks will face No. 23 Alabama next, while LSU aims to bounce back against No. 16 Ole Miss. Both teams will need to address their late-game execution as they prepare for the final stretch of the season.

New York Times

The matchup between South Carolina and LSU showcased the intensity and competitiveness of women's college basketball. As both teams look to refine their strategies, the implications of this game will resonate as they head into the postseason. The rivalry continues to be a highlight in the SEC, with South Carolina maintaining its upper hand for now.

The State