Sindarius Thornwell named SEC Player of the Week

All things considered, the past 10 days have been a banner stretch for South Carolina athletics. Football salvaged a winning season with a bowl victory and notched a major commitment, the women's basketball team cruised in its first conference games, and the men's team notched a pair of wins including a signature takedown of Iowa State. As of today, you can add a pair of conference honors for two of the teams' brightest stars.

Sindarius Thornwell was named the SEC Player of the Week following his performances against North Carolina A&T and Iowa State. Thornwell wasn't getting his points for much of December, but he ended strong with an 11 point, 5 rebound, 4 assist, 2 steal performance against North Carolina A&T. But it was his clutch performance against Iowa State (13 points, 8 rebounds, 1 steal) that cemented the award for the star sophomore. Thornwell especially shined late, earning some tough baskets and what would prove to be a game-winning steal to help the Gamecocks outlast the ninth-ranked Cyclones.

Meanwhile, A'ja Wilson continues to thrive in the women's game. Wilson had double-doubles against Auburn and LSU, putting up 21 points in yesterday's win in Baton Rouge. It's her third such honor of the season, and at this point it'd be an upset if she didn't break the league record of five, which was tied by Alaina Coates last season.