The Gamecocks (11-16, 1-13), who lost their first 13 Southeastern Conference games, turned in an impressive performance against a team that had just knocked off No. 15 Kentucky in its last outing, building a double-digit lead early and extending it to as many as 22 points in the second half.

It took 14 tries with plenty of heartbreak along the way, but the Gamecocks are finally winners in conference play.