“I felt bad for them but I was happy with how we competed”: South Carolina coach Lamont Paris gets real on loss against Mississippi State 

Lamont Paris’ South Carolina remained winless in SEC play after a 65-60 overtime loss to No. 14-ranked Mississippi State on Saturday. Despite the setback, coach Lamont Paris praised his team’s effort and resilience after the game, as they navigated their toughest stretch of the season.

“Well, if it doesn’t break you, it’ll make you stronger, and it hasn’t broken our guys,” Paris said. These games have been against super high-quality teams, and they’ve all come down to the wire.

"I told the team after the game that I felt bad for them, but I was happy with how we competed and fought. I believe our day is coming.”

South Carolina is 0-7 in conference play, the only team in the SEC yet to secure a win. Their average margin of defeat sits at 12.4 points, but their losses tell two different stories. While some, like road defeats to Alabama, Oklahoma, and Mississippi State, have been blowouts, others have been close.

In games against Auburn, Vanderbilt, Florida, and their most recent rematch with Mississippi State, the Gamecocks have lost by a combined 12 points. Paris emphasized that the team’s challenges go beyond securing a single victory. Despite their struggles, he remains confident in his players.

“When we truly recognize what’s preventing us from winning these close games, that’s when we’ll take a significant step forward as a group,” Paris said.

“We’ve got a good group of guys. They continue to play extremely hard and want to win badly. It’s not for lack of effort or focus, it’s just about making plays when it matters most.”

South Carolina hasn’t won a game since the calendar turned to 2025, adding to the frustration. However, Paris remains optimistic, pointing to two upcoming opportunities against Georgia and No. 13-ranked Texas A&M for the Gamecocks to earn their first SEC victory.

Lamont Paris reflects on tough losses and maintaining positivity

Lamont Paris has been trying to keep his Gamecocks' spirits high amidst a challenging start to SEC play. Paris mentioned after the game that the Gamecocks' defeat to Florida on Jan. 22 left him sleepless after they squandered a 14-point lead in a 70-69 loss.

“I didn’t sleep after the Florida game,” Paris said. “As coaches, you put a lot of time into this. You live and die with every single thing. It’s a challenge.”

South Carolina’s struggles have tested the Gamecocks’ resilience. Paris recognized the importance of setting a strong example for his players, knowing they look to him for guidance.

“You have to constantly keep in mind that they’re looking at you, no matter what,” Paris said. “Disappointment and failures can lead to tremendous growth if you respond properly. That’s what we’re committed to as a staff.”

The Gamecocks have faced tough opponents, with five of their first seven SEC games against ranked teams. Despite the difficult schedule and injuries to key players like Myles Stute and Jamarii Thomas, Paris is encouraged by his players’ effort and unity.

“I’m happy with our group and their internal makeup,” Paris said. “They believe in one another, they believe in us, and they know there are things we need to improve to turn these games around.”

Paris and his staff are focused on maintaining positivity and addressing areas for growth. He emphasizes honest communication with his players.