COLUMBIA, S.C. — Stetson fell to South Carolina 82–51 on Saturday night at Colonial Life Arena, despite the Hatters having three players in double figures.
Stetson struck first when Jake Johnson knocked down a 3-pointer on the opening possession, giving the Hatters an early spark. The teams traded baskets through the first five minutes, and a fast-break finish from Collin Kuhl later in the half kept Stetson within reach. Kuhl, one of three Hatters in double figures, led the way early with timely scoring inside. South Carolina, however, used a late first-half surge to create separation, sending Stetson into the break trailing 43–24.
The Hatters made their strongest push midway through the second half. Ethan Copeland provided a lift with back-to-back threes, trimming the deficit and momentarily shifting momentum. Calvin Sirmans III helped fuel the run with steady playmaking, including an assist on a Finley Sheridan layup that kept the Hatters attacking the rim. Despite the effort, Stetson was unable to sustain the run as South Carolina continued to convert from long range and extend its lead.
Stetson Top Performers
The Hatters return home on Monday, Dec. 15, to host Rhodes College at 7 p.m. at Insight Credit Union Arena at the Edmunds Center.
About Stetson Athletics
At Stetson University, student-athletes don't just compete—they thrive. Located in historic DeLand, Florida, between Orlando and Daytona Beach, Stetson offers the perfect blend of competitive athletics, academic excellence, and an unbeatable Central Florida lifestyle. As the oldest private university in the region, Stetson supports approximately 500 student-athletes across 19 NCAA Division I sports. Nicknamed the "Hatters" after the institution's namesake John B. Stetson, a hat manufacturer who originated the modern-day cowboy hat, most Stetson athletic teams compete in the Atlantic Sun Conference, where they proudly hold the longest active membership since 1985. With top-tier facilities, personalized support, and a welcoming campus community, Stetson is where students can grow, compete, and succeed. Learn more at GoHatters.com or follow social media accounts @StetsonHatters.
