Opinion
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Can Ole Miss Rebels Outmaneuver South Carolina Gamecocks at Colonial Life Arena?

As the Ole Miss Rebels gear up to face the South Carolina Gamecocks, all eyes are on what promises to be a riveting encounter at the Colonial Life Arena. The Rebels, coming off a string of performances that have seen them oscillate in form, will need to harness every ounce of their potential to overcome their hosts.


Feb 19, 2023; Oxford, Mississippi, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks players walk back on to the court during the first half against the Mississippi Rebels at The Sandy and John Black Pavilion at Ole Miss. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports

In their last game on December 21 against Arkansas-Pine Bluff Golden Lions, MISS showcased a defensive masterclass with 9 blocks and an equal number of steals. Their ability to convert defense into offense was evident with 17 fast break points. However, it's worth noting that they shot only 37 percent from the field and a concerning 14 percent from beyond the arc. Despite these shooting woes, they managed to secure a comfortable victory with 62 points against ARPB's mere 47.


Earlier on December 19 against South Alabama Jaguars, MISS had another low-scoring affair but still came out on top with a scoreline of 64-41. Their rebounding was dominant as they grabbed an impressive total of 52 boards. Yet again though, their field goal percentage was less than ideal at just 33 percent.


Feb 19, 2023; Oxford, Mississippi, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks forward Aliyah Boston (4) blocks a shot by Mississippi Rebels guard Destiny Salary (10) during the second half at The Sandy and John Black Pavilion at Ole Miss. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports

The most telling performance came during their home game against Mississippi Valley State Devilettes on December 13 where MISS put up an astounding offensive show scoring 84 points while shooting at an improved rate of nearly half their attempts from the field (47 percent). They also excelled in second-chance points with twenty and capitalized heavily on turnovers by scoring twenty-three points off them.


MISS has shown that when they click offensively and maintain their defensive intensity, they can be unstoppable. However, consistency remains key for this team if they are aiming for victory against SCAR who will undoubtedly provide stiff competition.


Feb 19, 2023; Oxford, Mississippi, USA; Mississippi Rebels guard Elauna Eaton (23) handles the ball against South Carolina Gamecocks guard Brea Beal (12) during the second half at The Sandy and John Black Pavilion at Ole Miss. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports

SCAR themselves cannot be underestimated as any home advantage could prove pivotal in this matchup. The Gamecocks' fans will certainly play their part in creating an intimidating atmosphere for any visiting team.


As we look ahead to February fourth's clash set for seven o'clock PM Eastern Time at Colonial Life Arena in Columbia, SC; fans should brace themselves for what could potentially be one of the season's most intriguing games yet. Will MISS carry forward its momentum or will SCAR leverage its home court advantage? This is one question that only time will answer.


For fans unable to attend in person, tuning into the broadcast would be advisable as this game promises not just competitiveness but also showcases two teams eager to assert dominance over each other.

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