We present our first look at Darrin Horn’s South Carolina Gamecocks.

Backcourt:
Devan Downey might be the most underrated guard in D-1. He is virtually uncheckable in transition and in the open court. He has a rare combination of speed, athleticism and ball skills. Downey will get his 20 and 6 every night. The other SC guards are good in their own right. Brandis Raley-Ross is a decent scorer while Evaldas Baniulis hit an uncanny 48 of 100 3-point tries last season. Watch out for a good incoming crop of long and strong wings.

Frontcourt:
Dominique Archie is a highlight reel jumping jack who gets out on the break as well as anybody in the SEC. He can play on the wing defensively, too. Juniors Mike Holmes, Sam Muldrow and Austin Steed will offer solid complementary post play.

Freshmen:
SC’s 3 incoming combo guards are impact players right away in the SEC. It appears Horn’s up-tempo system is luring skilled athletes to Columbia. Stephen Spinella, Lakeem Jackson and Ramon Galloway are all big, athletic and capable of scoring from the wing or off the bounce. Incoming JC transfer Johndre Johnson is long and lean and adds depth inside.

Outlook:
This squad has the potential to be USC’s best college hoops team since the Eddie Fogler Days. They are a serious darkhorse Sweet 16 group. They are balanced, experienced and deep. Of course, the SEC East figures to be a mine field where anything can happen.

BBL Take:
USC swept UK last season and its frontline flat out humiliated Patrick Patterson in Columbia. Expect war when they match up this year. An epic battle between John Wall and Downey looms.