South Carolina’s men’s basketball program is entering a pivotal phase as head coach Lamont Paris looks to solidify the backcourt for the upcoming 2026‑27 campaign. With the season opener slated for November, Paris has repeatedly emphasized the potential of his two point guards, Kory Mincy and Marcus Johnson, to drive the offense.
A Confident Outlook
Paris has voiced strong belief in the duo, citing their complementary skill sets and the offensive freedom they will enjoy. "Both guys have shown they can handle the ball and create opportunities," Paris said during a recent press conference, underscoring the coaching staff’s confidence in their development.
Mincy, who previously starred at Presbyterian and spent a season at George Mason, brings a career‑high 24.8% assist percentage from his sophomore year. At George Mason he adapted to a two‑guard role, averaging 2.9 assists per game while maintaining a 5.5 assist‑to‑turnover ratio that earned him Atlantic 10 Player of the Week honors in November 2025.
High‑Scoring Threat
Marcus Johnson arrives in Columbia with a storied high school pedigree. A two‑time Ohio Mr. Basketball, he amassed 2,364 career points and posted averages of 30.1 points and 5.6 assists per game at Garfield Heights. His scoring prowess and playmaking ability make him a versatile guard who can stretch defenses and create his own shot.
Johnson’s familial ties to the program add an extra layer of narrative. His cousin, former South Carolina guard Meechie Johnson, paved the way for his recruitment, and the younger Johnson hopes to build on that legacy while contributing to the team’s depth.
Summer League Progress
The Gamecocks have been active in the Baha Mar Hoops Summer League, where Mincy has already logged a 27‑point outing with four assists and rebounds, shooting 58% from the field. Despite early shooting inconsistencies, his playmaking has been a bright spot, and the team is using the experience to fine‑tune chemistry before the official season begins.
The summer schedule also includes a matchup against the Bahamas National Team, offering the Gamecocks a chance to test their new backcourt against international competition. The experience in the Bahamas will likely serve as a valuable prelude to the November start of the regular season.
Looking Ahead
Both Mincy and Johnson have expressed personal confidence in their abilities and their fit within Paris’s system. Mincy believes his time at South Carolina will be his most productive yet, citing the team’s offensive freedom and the presence of multiple shooting threats. Johnson, eager to make an immediate impact, is focused on translating his high school success to the collegiate stage.