|
X Earns Gritty Victory Over South Carolina in Fort Myers
By
Musketeer Madness,
11/25/2024
Xavier University’s men’s basketball team extended their unbeaten streak to 6-0 with a hard-fought 75-66 victory against South Carolina in the Suncoast Credit Union Arena. The game, part of the Fort Myers Tipoff, highlighted Xavier’s resilience as they overcame an early deficit to dominate the second half. The Musketeers’ well-rounded performance was led by key players including Zach Freemantle and Dailyn Swain, whose efforts on both ends of the court proved decisive. Freemantle led the charge with 16 points and nine rebounds, supported by Swain, who added 14 points, six rebounds, and five steals.
The first half saw South Carolina seize momentum with a 17-point scoring run that gave them their largest lead of 10 points. The Gamecocks capitalized on efficient shooting, hitting 47.8% of their field goals and 75% from the free-throw line. Xavier struggled from beyond the arc, managing only 9.1% from three-point range, but stayed in the game by dominating the paint with 42 points. South Carolina entered halftime with a narrow 34-29 lead.
In the second half, Xavier roared back, showcasing improved efficiency and a balanced attack. The Musketeers shot 54.8% from the field and a much-improved 42.9% from three-point range.
The team’s defensive intensity also turned the tide, forcing South Carolina into costly turnovers that resulted in 20 points for Xavier.
South Carolina’s struggles in the second half were compounded by a dip in shooting accuracy, hitting just 38.7% of their field goals. Although Jamarii Thomas and Collin Murray-Boyles contributed 11 and 13 points, respectively, the Gamecocks couldn’t match Xavier’s fast-break opportunities and second-chance points. Their bench did provide some spark, outscoring Xavier’s reserves 15-12, but it wasn’t enough to close the gap.
Xavier’s ability to capitalize on turnovers and dominate fast breaks was a key factor in their success. They outscored South Carolina 21-10 in transition and maintained a lead for 19 minutes and 29 seconds of the game.
Despite several lead changes and ties in the first half, the Musketeers’ second-half performance ensured a steady climb to victory, highlighted by their largest lead of 11 points.
With this win, Xavier moves on to face Michigan in the finals of the Fort Myers Tipoff. Game time is 8:30pm on Wednesday.
|
|
