Team History

The South Carolina Gamecocks basketball programs boast a rich history spanning over a century. The men’s team first took to the court in 1908, steadily building its reputation over the decades. More recently, the women’s basketball program has risen to become a powerhouse in collegiate sports, establishing itself as a consistent national contender and one of the sport’s premier programs.

Both the men’s and women’s Gamecocks teams call the University of South Carolina in Columbia, South Carolina their home, and they compete fiercely in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), one of the toughest basketball conferences in the nation.

Foundation and Early Years

The South Carolina Gamecocks men’s basketball team officially began playing in the 1908-09 season. These early years saw the program establish itself as a regional competitor. While success varied in those formative decades, the Gamecocks began building the foundation for what would eventually become a nationally recognized team.

The women’s basketball program started much later, taking its first steps in the 1974-75 season. Despite this later start, the team quickly began establishing its own tradition of success.

Notable Early Achievements

The men’s program enjoyed success within the Southern Conference, winning regular-season titles in 1927, 1933, 1934, and 1945. They also claimed the Southern Conference tournament championship in 1933. These achievements demonstrated the Gamecocks’ ability to compete at a high level.

Although a newer program, the women’s basketball team didn’t waste time making its presence felt. They achieved early success in the Association for Intercollegiate Athletics for Women (AIAW), reaching tournament play in multiple seasons.

Periods of Change

The men’s Gamecocks truly elevated their status under the legendary coach Frank McGuire. McGuire’s tenure (1964-1980) brought significant change. He led the team to new heights, including the 1970 Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) championship and the 1971 ACC Tournament title. The Gamecocks made four consecutive NCAA tournament appearances (1971-1974).

The women’s team’s trajectory skyrocketed when Dawn Staley took the reins as head coach in 2008. Her leadership and dedication transformed the program into a perennial force in women’s college basketball.

Championships and Achievements

While the men’s program has a storied tradition, their most iconic achievement came in 2017. The Gamecocks, under coach Frank Martin, made an improbable and captivating run to their first-ever Final Four. They shocked the college basketball world by defeating top-seeded Gonzaga to reach the National Championship game.

The South Carolina women’s basketball team has solidified its place among the nation’s elite. They captured their first NCAA National Championship in 2017, prevailing in a thrilling game against Mississippi State. In 2022, they added a second national title to their trophy case, defeating UConn for the top honor.

Management and Coaching Staff

The South Carolina men’s team is currently led by head coach Lamont Paris, who took over the program in 2022. The women’s team continues to thrive under the guidance of the legendary Dawn Staley, one of the most respected coaches in basketball. Staley is supported by a skilled coaching staff known for their player development and tactical expertise.

Home Stadium Information

The Gamecocks play their home games in the state-of-the-art Colonial Life Arena located on the University of South Carolina campus. This modern venue has a capacity of 18,000, creating an electric game-day atmosphere. Colonial Life Arena is famed for its raucous crowd, giving the Gamecocks a strong home-court advantage.