First Half

The South Carolina Gamecocks faced off against the Virginia Tech Hokies in a closely contested matchup at Colonial Life Arena. The Gamecocks, now standing at 0-1, put up a valiant effort but ultimately fell short with an 86-83 loss to the Hokies, who improved their record to 1-0. The first half saw the Cocks trailing by a narrow margin as they scored 34 points compared to Tech's 37.

Dec 2, 2025; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Kobe Knox (4) looks to shoot around Virginia Tech Hokies guard Tyler Johnson (10) in the first half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images

Elijah Strong was instrumental for the Gamecocks during this period, contributing significantly with his scoring prowess. Despite shooting just 38 percent from the field overall, Strong's efforts kept South Carolina within striking distance. Meechie Johnson also played a pivotal role by adding crucial points and assists that helped maintain momentum.

Second Half

As play resumed in the second half, both teams continued their intense battle on the court. The Gamecocks managed to outscore Tech by two points in this half, putting up 36 against their opponent's 33. Jordan Butler made his presence felt defensively with key blocks that stifled several attempts from Virginia Tech.

Dec 2, 2025; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Kobe Knox (4) reacts to a play against the Virginia Tech Hokies in the first half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images

However, it was not enough to secure a lead as turnovers became costly for South Carolina. With eight total turnovers throughout the game and only converting on three-point attempts at a rate of just 27 percent, these factors contributed significantly to what went wrong for South Carolina Gamecocks during critical moments.

Overtime

The game extended into overtime after both teams were tied at regulation time—a testament to how evenly matched they were throughout each quarter played so far! In extra minutes added onto regular playtime though; unfortunately things didn’t go according plan despite valiant efforts put forth by players like Mike Sharavjamts who showcased impressive skills under pressure situations yet again!

Dec 2, 2025; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; Virginia Tech Hokies forward Amani Hansberry (13) dunks against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the first half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images

Virginia Tech capitalized on opportunities presented themselves while maintaining composure amidst high-stakes environment leading them towards victory lane eventually sealing deal final scoreline favorably ending post-game report South Carolina Gamecocks hopes comeback thwarted late-stage heroics attempted valiantly nonetheless ultimately falling short end result being reflected upon post-game thoughts South Carolina Gamecocks fans alike!

Looking ahead now next challenge awaits when Stetson Hatters visit Columbia take stage Colonial Life Arena scheduled December sixth two PM Eastern Time broadcast live via SEC Network Plus internet platform exclusively available viewers nationwide eager catch action unfold firsthand experience excitement firsthand once more! Share this article among fellow fans stay updated latest developments surrounding beloved team’s journey season-long adventure continues onward evermore thrilling encounters await discovery together united spirit camaraderie shared passion sport itself transcending boundaries beyond mere competition alone truly remarkable spectacle behold indeed!

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