College of Charleston Comes Out on Top Against South Florida in Thrilling Home Opener

CHARLESTON, SC – College of Charleston Dominates South Florida in Home Opener

In an impressive show of skill and teamwork, the College of Charleston Cougars defeated the South Florida Bulls 86-71 in their highly anticipated home opener at TD Arena on November 8, 2024. Fans flocked to the arena, witnessing a thrilling matchup that commenced at 7 PM and concluded with joyous celebrations among the sellout crowd of 5,457.

Brzovic Shines with Career-High Points

Leading the charge for the Cougars was 6-10 Croatian center Ante Brzovic, who scored a career-high 34 points. This achievement marks the second consecutive game where he has demonstrated dominance on the court, affirming Coach Chris Mack’s strategy of making Brzovic a key component of the team’s offensive plays this season. The junior powerhouse not only excelled in scoring but also showcased his efficiency, going 12 of 20 from the floor, along with nine rebounds.

Fulton Contributes Significantly

In addition to Brzovic’s stellar performance, CJ Fulton made substantial contributions to the team’s victory with 16 points and six assists. Fulton asserted that the court opened up significantly with Brzovic’s standout plays, allowing him to capitalize on defensive weaknesses. “It’s fun to play with Ante when he’s playing like he did tonight,” he said, highlighting Brzovic’s unique ability to draw attention from defenders.

Second Half Surge

The Cougars entered halftime with a slender lead of 33-32. However, they quickly transformed the game dynamics in the second half, beginning with an explosive 11-0 run that set the tone for the rest of the match. Coach Mack commended his players for their relentless effort, stating, “We didn’t take our foot off the gas,” emphasizing their focus and determination not to let the lead slip away as it often does in high-pressure situations.

Honoring a Late Coach

Prior to the game, College of Charleston paid tribute to former South Florida head coach Amir Abdur-Rahim, who sadly passed away on October 24, 2024, after complications from surgery. A moment of silence was observed to honor his legacy and contributions to the sport, which resonated with both teams and fans alike.

Looking Ahead

With this victory, the Cougars now hold a record of 2-0 for the young season, while South Florida falls to 0-2. The team will look to build on this success when they face Florida Atlantic on November 15, also at TD Arena. As the Cougars continue their journey through the season, their confidence appears bolstered, thanks in large part to Ante Brzovic’s breakthrough performances and the support of dedicated fans.

For sports enthusiasts in Charleston, this game was more than just a win; it was a televised showcase of the potential within the Cougars’ squad, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.