The start of SEC play has begun, kicking off on Thursday, Jan. 2 with the pursuit of conference championships heating up.
Top-ranked South Carolina, LSU, Texas, and Oklahoma are all expected to compete for the conference titles. On opening night, Gamecocks and Tigers secured wins by over 30 points each, while the Longhorns pulled off a hard-fought victory against the Sooners in the SEC’s version of the Red River rivalry.
The conference is filled with talented players who, based on their non-conference performances, could lead their teams to surprise wins over the favorites. Keep an eye on these lesser-known SEC stars during conference play:
Khamil Pierre (Vanderbilt)
Nashville is home to women’s college basketball’s analytics standout. Sophomore forward Khamil Pierre excels in well-rounded, efficient performances, leading in various statistical categories nationally and within the SEC, contributing significantly to Vanderbilt’s strong start this season.
In the SEC opener against Georgia, Pierre’s impressive performance of 28 points and eight rebounds showcased her impact, complemented by freshman guard Mikayla Blakes’ record-breaking 36 points in the same game.
Tougher challenges lie ahead for Pierre, including matchups against Kentucky, Ole Miss, and a formidable LSU team, which will determine her status as a rising star in the conference.
DeYona Gaston (Auburn)
When Texas faces Auburn, expect grad forward DeYona Gaston to make an impact against her former team. Known for her effective play and improvements, Gaston has emerged as a force for the Tigers, displaying impressive numbers and shooting efficiency compared to her time at Texas.
Despite challenges, Gaston’s performances demonstrate her potential as a key player for Auburn, poised to enhance the team’s conference standing with the return of fellow transfer Taliah Scott.
As Auburn looks to build on their record with tougher opponents, Gaston’s contributions will be crucial in securing wins and improving the team’s position within the conference.
