LSU-South Carolina averaged 1.56 million viewers, topped NBA on TNT

Thursday night was a big one for women’s basketball as LSU and South Carolina squared off on ESPN. The game went directly against the NBA on TNT as the Miami Heat took on the Boston Celtics — and drew more viewers.

South Carolina’s thrilling, come-from-behind victory over LSU averaged 1.56 million viewers, making it the most-watched game from Thursday night’s slate, according to Sports Media Watch. By comparison, the Celtics’ 143-110 victory over the Heat averaged 1.38 million viewers.

The matchup between the Gamecocks and Tigers was also the second-most watched women’s basketball game of the season, only trailing Iowa vs. Ohio State last week. That game, which aired on NBC, averaged 1.86 million viewers and was the most-watched regular season women’s game since 2010.

The hype was building for LSU vs. South Carolina throughout the week. College GameDay was in attendance for the top-10 showdown, sitting in front of a packed house at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center prior to tip-off.

The amount of fanfare drew high praise from South Carolina coach Dawn Staley afterward.

“I think the decision-makers of our game are being much more intentional about showcasing our game,” Staley said. “In the same breath, I think they were intentional about not showcasing our game years ago. But I do think they see an opportunity to capitalize, from a financial standpoint. I do see that they’re starting to think it’s entertaining. It’s not just one player, it’s not just one program. It’s grown.

“The talent is overflowing. Our cup runneth over with talent in the game, talent on the sidelines, talent in the stands. It’s quite incredible, and I don’t think it’s going anywhere. I do think you have to credit a lot of people. You have to credit a lot of individuals.”

Inside the box score: LSU vs. South Carolina

LSU held a lead for most of the game Thursday night, but South Carolina rallied back, especially after Angel Reese fouled out. The Gamecocks jumped back out in front in the last couple minutes before a back-and-forth affair down the stretch. Ultimately, a Bree Hall three put South Carolina back out in front, and Raven Johnson sealed it as time ticked away as the Gamecocks remained undefeated and handed LSU its third loss of the year.

South Carolina used a balanced attack on offense, led by an impressive shooting night from Chloe Kitts. She went 6-for-9 from the floor for 14 points, while Raven Johnson added 13. Leading scorer Kamilla Cardoso was held to just 5-of-11 shooting and 11 points as the LSU defense keyed in on her throughout the contest.

Aneesah Morrow led the charge for LSU with 16 points and 10 rebounds. Reese wasn’t far behind her, adding 15 points and eight rebounds before committing her fifth foul of the night.