COLUMBIA, S.C. — Excitement is palpable in Columbia as both the men's and women's basketball teams from the University of South Carolina (U.S.C) secure spots in the NCAA Tournaments for the first time since 2017.
Fans and alumni alike are buzzing with anticipation as they prepare to cheer on their beloved teams in the upcoming games.
"I didn't go to school here, but I'm a fan of Carolina, and I've been a fan for years now but what I really like the most is the way Dawn has created that dynasty with these girls," says Tweesy Johnson, a passionate Gamecocks fan.
"I love both teams. I think they are so amazing seeing the men's team grow throughout this past year with Lamont being named SEC Coach of the Year, I think that's absolutely amazing. It's a testament to how strong our program for both women and men is growing it's such a big deal down here in Columbia, and I am so excited to watch them throughout the tournament, I am a huge fan of both teams," says Mary Kimbrell Osbourne, a U.S.C. alumni.
Fellow alumna Frances Parker echoed Osbourne's sentiments, expressing her thrill, "I am thrilled that both Coach Staley and Coach Parris are SEC Coaches of The Year, Coach Parris has brought just an enthusiasm back to men's basketball since I haven't felt since the days of Frank McGuire," Parker stated.
For student Raegan McMahon, the anticipation of witnessing the Gamecocks' success in the NCAA Tournament brings back fond memories of their 2021 national championship victory. "I went and watched them win the national championship. It was a great experience and it showed a true community in Columbia," McMahon reminisced.
The Gamecock women's basketball team currently holds the top spot nationally for home attendance this season, with an average of over 15,000 attendees per game.
Alumni like Parker are eager to secure tickets and witness the team's journey firsthand. "We're still working on getting our tickets to the Final Four, but we have hotels and airplane reservations," Parker revealed.
The men's team will face either Vanderbilt or Arkansas in the SEC Tournament tomorrow.