Expert recap and game analysis of the South Carolina Gamecocks vs. Alabama Crimson Tide NCAAW game from January 1, 2026 on ESPN.

An uptick in measles cases in South Carolina has put the U.S. on the precipice of losing its elimination status for the highly contagious disease.

As the new year begins, many South Carolinians may notice something different when they look at their paychecks.

South Carolina recorded two wins over ranked non-conference opponents: Southern Cal and Louisville, which then ranked No. 8 and No. 22, respectively. USC’s scoring margin was 39.8 points in non-conference play. South Carolina’s closest win was its two-point victory over Louisville in December.

But coming into its non-conference finale, South Carolina ranked second-to-last in the SEC in 3-point percentage (30%). The only Gamecock starter hitting over a third of their attempts from deep is Johnson (33%), yet — as Assemian mentioned, USC shoots well from the free-throw line. So what gives?

2025 may prove to be a turning point for the organization. After suffering through a franchise-record playoff drought, the team has a chance to win its first NFC South title in a decade this Saturday—in a potential winner-take-all matchup with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

The Hurricanes, who lead the Metropolitan Division, have been rotating three goalies this season. Carolina is now down to two, pending any roster moves.

It may not seem like the biggest deal in the world, but the North Carolina Tar Heels defeating the Florida State Seminoles on Tuesday night was a statement resu