South Carolina Gamecocks lock in 2026‑27 SEC schedule amid roster overhaul
The University of South Carolina announced its complete SEC slate for the 2026‑27 men’s basketball season, a schedule that opens on Jan. 2 with a road test at LSU and culminates on March 6 with a final away contest at Georgia. In between, the Gamecocks will host Arkansas for their first home conference game on Jan. 5 or 6, and they will meet Georgia, Mississippi State and Tennessee both at home and on the road throughout the year.
The announcement comes as the program undergoes a massive overhaul after a 13‑19 campaign the previous year. Twelve scholarship players have departed through graduation or transfer, creating ample room for a fresh infusion of talent.
Among the newcomers are five international athletes: Jakub Necas of the Czech Republic, Mathias Alessanco from Brazil, Hugo Lopez representing Spain, Juan Fernández of Argentina, and Aleksas Bieliauskas of Lithuania. Their diverse backgrounds add a global flavor to the roster.
The rest of the class includes Davion Hannah, who arrives from Alabama, Shane Blakeney from Drexel, Camden Heide from Texas, and Kory Mincy from George Mason. Veteran head coach Lamont Paris will guide the group, while guard Joshua Boucher returns to bring experience to the backcourt.
With a blend of seasoned leadership and fresh legs, the Gamecocks hope the new schedule and roster moves will translate into a competitive push in the SEC. The coaching staff, including Lou Bezjak, is optimistic that the mix of domestic and overseas talent can reshape the team's fortunes.