CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) -Dominique Archie scored 17 points to lead a balanced scoring effort for South Carolina as the Gamecocks cruised past La Salle 78-68 in the first round of the Charleston Classic on Thursday night.
Leading by two at the half, South Carolina (3-0) started the second half with a 13-4 run and built a 17-point lead with 11:50 to play.
La Salle (1-0) never made a serious run, and the Gamecocks coasted home for the victory.
The Gamecocks had four players finish in double figures, including Brandis Raley-Ross with 16, Mike Holmes with 15 and Devan Downey with 10.
Rodney Green led La Salle with 23 points.
South Carolina led 38-36 at the half, thanks to a 9-2 run over the final 3:45.
The Explorers shot 51.9 percent from the field in the first half and dominated play until the Gamecocks' late run.
