South Carolina's 81-78 victory over No. 8 Texas A&M was an instant classic. The nail-biter featured 23 lead changes, highlight reel dunks and ferocious defense. The Gamecock victory marked their first win over a top 10 team on the road since they beat the Florida Gators back in 2006. The Gators went on to win the NCAA tournament that year.
South Carolina looked like they were going to lose control of this one early on, falling behind by eight before junior Duane Notice got them on the board by hitting a jump shot.
Both teams played aggressive defense in the paint, forcing their opponents to shoot from outside. South Carolina elected incorporate zone defense, which they have rarely used this season.
Senior forward Michael Carrera knocked down all five of his three-point attempts. The Aggies also shot well from behind the arc, making 12 of 25 attempts.
Freshman guard P.J. Dozier improved his play in the second half after struggling early on. Dozier's monster, one-handed jam with 9:44 to play should earn a spot on SportCenter's Top 10 Plays tomorrow morning.
Junior guard Sindarius Thornwell paced South Carolina in scoring with 25 points. Texas A&M was led by their duo in the backcourt, as their guards Alex Caruso and Danuel House each collected 16 points.
South's Carolina's victory gives them a chance to stay ranked despite their loss to Georgia on Tuesday night. They improve to 7-3 in the SEC and 20-3 overall. The Gamecocks will need to keep their momentum when they host LSU and Kentucky this week.