USC made just 8-of-33 shots (24%) in the first half to fall into a 40-20 halftime deficit and never recovered in losing to George Washington 79-55 Wednesday night to open a two-game trip to the nation’s capital. The Gamecocks warmed up in the second to the tune of 4% shooting but were still outscored 39-35.
The Colonials left no doubt about the outcome by outscoring the Gamecocks 20-5 over the first five minutes of the second half for their largest lead at 60-25. GW shot 51% for the game, including 12-of-27 from three. The Colonials had 21 assists on their 30 baskets, outscored USC in the paint 34-22 and had 23 second chance points to the Gamecocks 6.
Chico Carter Jr. led the Gamecocks with 13 points. Three of his four baskets were three-pointers. GG Jackson suffered through a 4-17 shooting night to finish with 11 points.
James Bishop nailed five three-pointers and was the game high scorer with 24 points. He also dished out eight assists and grabbed three rebounds.
The Gamecocks drop to 3-4 with the loss and will play at Georgetown Saturday afternoon.
