South Carolina’s men’s basketball squad kicked off the Baha Mar Hoops Summer League with two convincing exhibition wins, beating the University of Victoria 94‑81 on Saturday night and following it up with an 86‑46 triumph over The Bahamas National Team on Monday.
The Gamecocks’ offense clicked early, shooting 49 percent from the field and 30 percent from beyond the arc in the first game, while a disciplined defensive effort limited the Canadians to just 24 percent shooting. The team’s three‑point rhythm continued to improve, reaching 37 percent in the second contest.
Kory Mincy emerged as the primary scorer, posting 18 points in the opener and adding 15 in the second game. His performance was complemented by double‑figure outings from Shane Blakeney, Camden Heide, Aleksas Bieliauskas and Hayden Assemian, providing depth that coach Lamont Paris praised.
International recruits also made an impact. Hugo Lopez contributed eight points and three rebounds, while Juan Fernandez saw limited minutes. In the later game, Jakub Necas posted a near‑double‑double with eight points, 11 rebounds and six assists, underscoring the roster’s versatility.
Coach Lamont Paris emphasized that the early results reflect the identity he wants to build — a defense‑first mindset paired with a reliable three‑point threat. The wins give the 2026‑27 squad a positive foundation as they prepare for the upcoming regular season.
A New Identity Takes Shape
The early exhibition schedule not only validates the team’s tactical adjustments but also signals to opponents that South Carolina is poised to compete aggressively. With a blend of veteran leadership and fresh talent, the Gamecocks look ready to translate these performances into a strong regular‑season campaign.