Carolina’s miraculous run in the NIT continued as they advanced to the championship game with a 75-67 victory over the Maryland Terrapins at Madison Square Garden.

The Gamecocks played well in the first half, evidenced by their 41-29 lead at the break. It was much of the same in the second half as USC built an 18-point lead midway through. However, the Terps weren’t done quite yet as they trimmed the USC lead to only seven (64-57) with 5:41 left. However, just as quickly the momentum swung, and Maryland was held scoreless for the next 3:34, allowing Carolina to seal it with free throws down the stretch.

The star for Carolina was senior Carlos Powell, who insured himself of at least one more game as a Gamecock. Powell scored 17 points, including 9 of 12 from the line, and added 12 big rebounds as well.

Carolina moved on to the NIT championship game for the second time in history, this time facing the Hawks of St. Joseph’s.

Compiled by Don Turner