In an impressive display of skill and determination, Jermaine Couisnard led the Oregon Ducks to an 87-73 victory over his former school, South Carolina, in the first round of the NCAA Tournament's Midwest Region. Couisnard, who transferred from South Carolina after a coaching change in 2022, showcased his talent with a career-high 40 points, propelling the 11th-seeded Ducks to a convincing win.

Oregon started the game strong, with Couisnard's exceptional shooting and precision from beyond the arc. The talented guard made five 3-pointers and shot an impressive 14 of 22 from the field, setting the tone for his remarkable performance. Couisnard's offensive prowess was matched by his teammate, center N'Faly Dante, who contributed 23 points and delivered some emphatic dunks that rattled the backboard.

Despite a valiant effort from the sixth-seeded Gamecocks, who showed marked improvement under their second-year coach, Lamont Paris, South Carolina struggled to maintain offensive consistency. While guard Ta'Lon Cooper provided a viral moment with a buzzer-beating shot from beyond half court at halftime, it was Couisnard's consistent scoring that proved to be the decisive factor in Oregon's victory.

Oregon's win sets up an anticipated showdown in the second round against No. 3 seed Creighton. The matchup carries a special significance as it reunites Ducks coach Dana Altman with his former team, where he spent 16 years and built Creighton into a prominent mid-major program. Altman holds an impressive record in the NCAA Tournament, as the Ducks improved to 8-0 in first-round games under his guidance.

The game against Creighton promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams boasting exceptional talent and a strong desire to advance further in the tournament. With Couisnard spearheading Oregon's offensive attack, the Ducks will look to build on their recent success, including a surprising Pac-12 tournament title that included an upset win over top-seeded Arizona.

As the NCAA Tournament continues, all eyes will be on the dynamic performances of players like Jermaine Couisnard, who bring their A-game to create memorable moments on the court. Oregon's victory over South Carolina serves as a testament to their resilience and ability to execute under pressure, setting the stage for a thrilling clash against Creighton in the next round.

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