ThreeBestRated® Honors Charleston Criminal Defense Attorney John W. Molony for Client-Centered Legal Advocacy CHARLESTON, SC, UNITED STATES — John W. Molony, a criminal defense attorney based in Charleston, South Carolina, has been recognized by ThreeBestRated® with the 2026 award for his dedication to personalized legal representation. The honor underscores his reputation for prioritizing client needs and delivering professional, responsive defense in complex legal matters. Molony’s practice focuses on criminal defense and DUI cases, addressing charges such as drug offenses, domestic violence, theft, white-collar crimes, and traffic violations across South Carolina. Molony’s approach to criminal defense emphasizes direct involvement with each client, a contrast to larger law firms where communication often relies on intermediaries. He personally handles cases from initial consultations through courtroom representation, ensuring clients receive tailored guidance during high-stakes legal processes. This hands-on strategy has become a hallmark of his practice, offering individuals facing criminal charges a sense of clarity and reassurance amid uncertainty. The attorney’s academic background includes a Bachelor of Arts in English and History from Clemson University, followed by a Juris Doctor from Mercer University’s Walter F. George School of Law.#south_carolina #clemson_university #charleston #threebestrated #john_w_molony
Midwestern State Leads Nation in Home Foreclosures as U.S. Filings Surge 26% Foreclosure filings in the U.S. rose by 26% compared to the previous year, with Midwestern states bearing the brunt of the crisis. In the first quarter of 2026, 118,727 properties faced foreclosure, marking a 6% increase from the prior quarter. Indiana emerged as the hardest-hit state, with one foreclosure filing for every 739 housing units, nearly two-thirds higher than the national average of one in every 1,211 homes. South Carolina and Florida followed closely, with foreclosure rates of 1 in 743 and 1 in 750, respectively. These states, all of which voted for Donald Trump in the 2024 election, now face mounting economic pressure as the 2026 midterm elections approach. The National Association of Home Builders’ CEO, Jim Tobin, highlighted that while falling rents offer temporary relief for struggling homeowners, purchasing a home remains the most reliable path to wealth accumulation. However, rising mortgage rates and inflation continue to strain homeowners. The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate climbed to 6.37% by mid-May 2026, up from 5.98% in late February. This increase, combined with higher living costs, has pushed monthly payments beyond the reach of many households. The data reveals a troubling trend: more homes are entering the foreclosure process. In the first quarter of 2026, 82,631 properties initiated foreclosure proceedings, a 20% rise from the previous year. Lenders repossessed 14,020 homes, a 45% annual increase. While these figures remain below the peak levels of the 2008 housing crisis, experts warn that the uptick signals growing financial distress among homeowners. Rob Barber, CEO of ATTOM, noted that the recent surge in foreclosures suggests more households are struggling to keep up with housing costs.#donald_trump #south_carolina #florida #indiana #midwestern_states
Ryan Ruffels betting profile: ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic Ryan Ruffels, the Australian golfer, is set to return to the ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic for the first time in five years. The tournament, scheduled to take place at Dunes Golf and Beach Club in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, will run from May 7 to May 10, 2026. This marks Ruffels’ reentry into the event after a five-year absence, with his latest participation expected to be a significant moment in his career. Ruffels’ recent performance metrics provide insight into his current form. Over the past five tournaments, he has averaged -0.273 Strokes Gained: Off-the-Tee, indicating a slight deficit compared to the field in terms of driving accuracy. His Approach the Green performance has also been a challenge, with an average of -0.212, suggesting struggles with iron play. Around-the-green performance shows a marginally better result at -0.102, while his putting average of -0.229 highlights ongoing difficulties with short game execution. Collectively, these stats result in a total Strokes Gained average of -0.817 over his last five starts, placing him in a competitive but challenging position heading into the tournament. The tournament’s recent history adds context to Ruffels’ participation. In 2025, Ryan Fox emerged as the winner, finishing at 15-under par. This victory underscores the high level of competition in the event, which likely influences Ruffels’ approach as he seeks to make an impact. While Fox’s performance sets a benchmark, Ruffels’ return to the field offers an opportunity to showcase his skills and potentially challenge for a top finish. Ruffels’ advanced statistics further illustrate his standing in the PGA Tour.#south_carolina #dunes_golf_and_beach_club #oneflight_myrtle_beach_classic #myrtle_beach #ryan_ruffels
South Carolina Women's Basketball Stars Shine on ESPN's WNBA Top 50 List ESPN released its list of the top 50 WNBA players on Thursday, with South Carolina women’s basketball alumna A’ja Wilson leading the ranking. The list was compiled by ESPN analysts Charlie Creme, Kendra Andrews, Kareem Copeland, and Hall of Famer Michael Voepel. No rookies were included in the final rankings. Wilson, who won the last two MVP awards and four of the past six, is the only four-time MVP in WNBA history. Her dominance was highlighted as the primary reason for her top spot, with analysts noting her unparalleled consistency and statistical dominance. Wilson’s college teammate Allisha Gray, who was named first-team All-WNBA for the first time last season, ranked seventh on the list. Gray averaged 18.4 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.5 assists in 2023, marking her best statistical season. Andrews explained Gray’s placement by emphasizing her career highs in points, rebounds, and assists. Aliyah Boston, another Gamecock, was ranked 14th. Boston, who recently signed the richest contract in WNBA history, was noted for her consistency over three All-Star seasons. Her 2023 season included 15.0 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 3.7 assists, with analysts highlighting her role as a facilitator during Indiana’s injury challenges. Kamilla Cardoso, the 2024 No. 3 overall WNBA draft pick, ranked 24th after a strong sophomore season. Cardoso averaged 13.6 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks, finishing fifth in the league in rebounds. Her performance was described as impressive enough to draw attention from the Chicago Sky, though the source does not specify any trades involving Angel Reese. Copeland noted Cardoso’s potential for growth, suggesting her third season could be even more impactful.#south_carolina #a_ja_wilson #aliyah_boston #allisha_gray #kamilla_cardoso
SC State Students Protest Evette Selection as Graduation Speaker South Carolina State University students have launched a protest against the selection of Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette as the commencement speaker for their graduation ceremony, citing her opposition to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. The controversy has sparked widespread debate, with over 2,000 signatures collected on a petition demanding her removal from the role. Students and alumni argue that Evette’s stance on DEI policies does not align with the values and experiences of the university’s predominantly Black student body. Evette, a Republican, has publicly defended her position, rejecting criticism as an attack on her efforts to address what she describes as “radical DEI scams” on college campuses. In a statement released on April 28, she dismissed the backlash as a result of her commitment to “eliminating woke ideologies,” claiming, “I must be doing something right because woke mobs are coming after me for being a champion of eliminating radical DEI scams on college campuses.” Her remarks have intensified the divide between her and the student community, who see her stance as a threat to institutional progress. Student leaders, including Zaria Tucker, president of South Carolina State’s Student Government Association, have framed the protest as a matter of representation rather than politics. In a Facebook post, Tucker emphasized that the graduation ceremony should reflect the voices and values of the students it honors. “At an HBCU, our legacy is rooted in advocacy, equity, and the power of our voices,” she wrote. “When decisions are made without us in moments that belong to us, it matters.#south_carolina #south_carolina_state_university #deon_tedder #pamela_evette #zaria_tucker
South Carolina Lt. Governor Addresses 'Woke Mob' Protests at HBCU South Carolina State University, the state’s sole public historically Black college and university (HBCU), is at the center of a heated controversy over Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette’s planned commencement address. The dispute erupted after students protested her selection to speak at the university’s spring graduation ceremony, which is scheduled for May 8. The backlash stems from Evette’s political stance and her public criticism of “woke” movements, which students argue clash with the institution’s mission. The protests began on Tuesday, with students gathering near the Donna Administration Building on the Orangeburg campus. They held signs and organized a sit-in, expressing frustration that Evette’s political views—particularly her alignment with conservative policies—do not align with the values of the HBCU. Multiple media outlets, including WIS, confirmed that Evette had been selected to deliver the commencement speech, while her office emphasized her honor in accepting the invitation. However, SC State officials later clarified that the speaker had not yet been officially confirmed, and student leaders were informed of the plan despite the lack of a public announcement. The controversy has intensified as Evette continues her campaign for governor. As a Republican, she serves under Gov. Henry McMaster and has positioned herself as a champion of conservative policies. For many students, the issue transcends party politics. The debate centers on the symbolic weight of the commencement ceremony, a pivotal moment for graduates. South Carolina State, with its deep historical ties to Black education and leadership, sees the event as more than a speaking engagement—it is a platform for values and identity.#south_carolina #south_carolina_state_university #pamela_evette #zaria_tucker #orangeburg
Indiana Fever Select Raven Johnson in First Round of 2026 WNBA Draft The Indiana Fever officially selected South Carolina guard Raven Johnson with the 10th overall pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft, marking a strategic move to bolster their roster with a versatile and experienced point guard. Johnson, a 5-foot-9 player, concluded her collegiate career at South Carolina with a 145-9 record, showcasing her leadership and skill across multiple levels of competition. Her selection highlights the Fever’s focus on acquiring a defensive anchor capable of making an immediate impact in the league. Johnson’s collegiate performance was standout, as she averaged 9.9 points, 5.1 assists, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.5 steals per game during her senior season. Her ability to control the tempo of the game and elevate her team’s defense earned her the SEC Defensive Player of the Year award. Her shooting efficiency further underscores her value, with a 48.6% field goal percentage, 39.8% three-point accuracy, and an impressive 82% free-throw shooting rate. These numbers reflect her reliability in high-pressure situations, a trait that aligns with the Fever’s need for a player who can thrive in critical moments. Fever head coach Stephanie White praised Johnson’s readiness for the WNBA, emphasizing her experience in big-game scenarios. “She’s a winner,” White said during a press conference at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. “She’s won at every level, set the tone at every level. She’s immediately ready on the defensive end, which is something we need. She’s been a true point guard, and she’s experienced in big game moments.” White’s comments underscore the Fever’s belief that Johnson’s defensive versatility and playmaking ability will complement their existing roster.#south_carolina #dawn_staley #indiana_fever #raven_johnson #stephanie_white
NCAA Women's Tournament Final: South Carolina and UCLA Clash for Championship Title The NCAA women’s basketball tournament reached its pinnacle as No. 1 seed UCLA faced No. 1 seed South Carolina in the championship game, a matchup that promised to determine the season’s top team. The Gamecocks, led by coach Dawn Staley, sought their fourth national title under her leadership, while the Bruins, making their first title game appearance, aimed to end a 16-year championship drought. The game, broadcast live, carried significant weight for both programs, with Staley and UCLA coach Cori Close reflecting on their journeys to the final. From the opening moments, the physicality of the contest was evident. UCLA’s star center, Lauren Betts, found herself challenged by South Carolina’s Madina Okot, who aggressively contested her positioning. Officials’ calls would play a critical role in shaping the game’s flow, as Okot’s foul trouble could disrupt South Carolina’s defensive strategy. The early minutes set the tone for a tightly contested battle, with both teams showcasing their depth and resilience. For UCLA, the path to the championship was marked by a blend of experience and youthful energy. Coach Close, who had guided the Bruins to the Final Four for the second consecutive year, relied on a core of seven players, six of whom were seniors or graduate students. The team’s senior leadership, led by Betts, was complemented by the presence of Betts’ younger sister, Sienna, a freshman making her debut in the tournament. Betts expressed pride in Sienna’s ability to carry the legacy of the program, stating, “I can’t wait to see how she continues this legacy at UCLA. I’m just so proud of her.” The Final Four field highlighted the growing presence of women coaches in the sport.#ucla #south_carolina #dawn_staley #ncaa_womens_tournament #cori_close
UCLA and South Carolina Set for March Madness National Championship Clash The women’s NCAA Tournament will culminate in a high-stakes national championship matchup as No. 1 seed UCLA faces No. 1 seed South Carolina on April 5, 2026. The game, scheduled for 3:30 p.m. Eastern Time at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona, will be broadcast live on ABC and ESPN, with streaming options available via Fubo. This showdown marks a pivotal moment in the 68-team tournament, with both teams vying for their first title since 2017 for South Carolina and their first championship since 2023 for UCLA. South Carolina, the defending national champions, entered the tournament with a strong record, having advanced through the Round of 62 by defeating No. 16 Southern 103-34, followed by a dominant Round of 32 victory over No. 9 USC 101-61. In the Sweet 16, they edged No. 4 Oklahoma 94-68 before advancing to the Elite Eight with a 78-52 win against No. 3 TCU. Their Final Four appearance saw them overcome No. 1 UConn 62-48, setting the stage for their first national championship since 2017. UCLA, meanwhile, has been a powerhouse throughout the tournament. The Bruins began with a 96-43 rout of No. 16 CA Baptist in the Round of 62, then defeated No. 8 Oklahoma State 87-68 in the Round of 32. They advanced to the Sweet 16 with a 80-56 win over No. 4 Minnesota, followed by a 70-58 Elite Eight victory against No. 3 Duke. UCLA’s Final Four run included a 51-44 triumph over No. 1 Texas, positioning them as the top seed for the championship. The national championship game will be the culmination of a grueling tournament path for both teams.#ucla #south_carolina #phoenix #mortgage_matchup_center #usa_today_sports
UCLA Entering NCAA Title Game with 'Businesslike' Mindset PHOENIX — UCLA’s journey to its first NCAA championship game has been marked by a shift in mindset, as head coach Cori Close emphasized a strategic, focused approach to the final showdown against South Carolina. The Bruins, making their debut in the national title game, have drawn on lessons from their 2023 Final Four run, where they fell in the semifinals. Close described the team’s current preparation as a stark contrast to last year’s experience, highlighting how the team’s maturity and planning have evolved. The 2024 season has been a transformative chapter for UCLA, with the Bruins advancing to the title game after a 51-44 victory over Texas in the semifinals. Close noted that the team’s approach this year has been fundamentally different from the previous year, when they were “reacting to everything” rather than anticipating challenges. “Last year, we were reacting to everything, not anticipating,” she said during a press conference. “Whereas now that we have been a part of this, it just was a totally different planning experience. I just felt like we were able to be more strategic in how we put our players in position to be successful.” The Bruins’ preparation has also been influenced by the experiences of returning players from the 2023 Final Four. Close mentioned that several veterans shared insights with newer team members, helping to shape the team’s mindset. “That makes all the difference in the world,” she said, underscoring the value of mentorship and continuity. South Carolina, the Bruins’ title game opponent, presents a formidable challenge. The Gamecocks have made six consecutive Final Four appearances and are set to play in their fourth national title game.#ucla #south_carolina #gamecocks #cori_close #gabriela_jaquez
Motorcyclist Dies After Hitting Tree in Travelers Rest A motorcyclist died following a crash on Thursday night in Travelers Rest, South Carolina, according to the South Carolina Highway Patrol. The incident occurred on Tubbs Mountain Road near Upcountry Lane around 9:50 p.m. Officials reported that the rider lost control of their motorcycle and veered off the right side of the road, striking a tree. The Greenville County Coroner’s Office confirmed the identity of the deceased as 45-year-old Brian Doyle Medlin. Authorities have not yet released additional details about the circumstances of the crash or the condition of the motorcycle. Further updates are pending as investigators continue their review of the incident. No other individuals were reported to be involved in the crash. The Highway Patrol urged drivers to exercise caution in the area, particularly during nighttime hours, and to report any traffic incidents promptly. The incident highlights the dangers of riding motorcycles, especially in rural areas where road conditions and visibility can pose risks. Local officials have previously emphasized the importance of wearing helmets and adhering to traffic laws to reduce the likelihood of severe injuries or fatalities. Emergency responders arrived at the scene shortly after the crash, but Medlin was pronounced dead at the location. The coroner’s office is expected to conduct a full examination to determine the cause of death and any contributing factors. This tragedy underscores the need for heightened awareness among motorcyclists and drivers alike. Authorities are working to gather more information and will provide further details as they become available.#south_carolina #travelers_rest #south_carolina_highway_patrol #greenville_county_coroner_s_office #tubbs_mountain_road
Columbia Car Accident Attorneys Help Victims Navigate Legal Process Car accidents often leave victims grappling with physical, emotional, and financial challenges. From severe injuries to long-term medical care and lost income, individuals involved in crashes may struggle to understand their legal options. McWhirter, Bellinger & Associates, Attorneys at Law, a Columbia-based law firm, specializes in representing accident victims to recover damages and clarify how their claims are assessed. The firm emphasizes the importance of legal guidance in securing fair compensation and protecting victims’ rights. Auto accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, including fractures, herniated discs, concussions, burns, and in severe cases, spinal cord injuries or traumatic brain injuries. Some injuries may initially seem minor but can worsen over time as symptoms develop. These conditions often impact a person’s ability to work and maintain daily routines, making it essential to evaluate claims beyond immediate medical costs. Legal professionals at McWhirter, Bellinger & Associates work to ensure victims receive comprehensive support, addressing both short-term and long-term consequences of their injuries. The value of a car accident claim depends on several factors, including medical expenses, future care needs, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. Attorneys at the firm assess each case by gathering evidence such as medical records, financial documentation, and insurance policies. They also consider the long-term impact of injuries, ensuring that compensation reflects both tangible and intangible losses. South Carolina law guides these evaluations, requiring thorough documentation to support claims for fair compensation.#south_carolina #mcwhirter_bellinger_associates #columbia #car_accident #attorney
NFL Draft Injury Analysis: Jalon Kilgore, S - South Carolina The Detroit Lions are considering selecting a safety in the early rounds of the NFL draft due to injuries to existing players Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch. Jalon Kilgore, a South Carolina safety, is a potential candidate for the team’s needs, despite his own history of hamstring injuries. While Kilgore has faced minor setbacks, analysts suggest he remains a low-risk option for a team prioritizing health at the safety position. Kilgore’s injury history includes multiple hamstring-related issues over the past three seasons. In 2025, he missed Game 2 with a hamstring injury, and in 2023, he exited the season finale with a similar problem. His 2024 season saw him miss a regular-season game due to an unspecified leg injury but return for the bowl game. If the 2024 injury is confirmed to be a hamstring strain, it would mark a concerning pattern of recurring issues. Despite the recurring hamstring problems, Kilgore’s availability has been strong overall. He played in all 12 games in 2025, 13 in 2024, and 12 in 2023. However, the concern lies in determining whether his injuries are due to a predisposition to hamstring strains or simply the physical demands of his position. Fast-twitch athletes, like safeties, are naturally prone to hamstring injuries due to their explosive movements, but the challenge for teams is identifying players who are more susceptible to such issues. Kilgore’s young age is a significant advantage in this context. At 21, he has more time to develop and potentially overcome his injury history. Analysts note that while hamstring strains are common in his position, the key factor will be whether Kilgore’s injuries are isolated incidents or part of a larger pattern.#south_carolina #detroit_lions #jalon_kilgore #kerby_joseph #brian_branch
Diana Taurasi Discusses UConn's Rivals, Azzi Fudd's Draft Prospects, and WNBA CBA in Q&A Diana Taurasi, a three-time WNBA and NCAA champion, reflected on her collaboration with GREENIES to promote dental health for pets, calling it a natural fit given her lifelong love for dogs. The partnership, tied to the “Be Your Dog’s Mouthguard” campaign, aims to kick off March Madness by linking pet care with college basketball. Taurasi emphasized that GREENIES has been a staple in her household for years, serving as her pets’ favorite treat. The campaign encourages fans to pledge support for the initiative, with a reward of a free GREENIES bag for those who take the pledge if UConn wins the national championship. When asked about potential threats to UConn’s dominance in the NCAA Tournament, Taurasi highlighted South Carolina and UCLA as key contenders. She praised South Carolina’s steady improvement throughout the season, noting the team’s ability to peak at the right time. UCLA’s balanced roster, which no longer relies on a singular defensive anchor like Lauren Betts, also emerged as a formidable challenge. Taurasi acknowledged UConn’s strength, crediting senior Azzi Fudd and junior Sarah Strong for their leadership and the team’s consistent high-level play. Taurasi expressed confidence in UConn’s ability to repeat as champions, though she admitted the team’s undefeated season this year was impressive. She noted that Fudd’s resilience despite injuries and Strong’s growth into a key player contributed to the team’s success. While she acknowledged the difficulty of facing a team like the 2002 UConn squad, she deferred to experts for definitive opinions on historical comparisons. The conversation turned to Azzi Fudd’s potential as a No. 1 overall draft pick in the WNBA Draft.#ucla #south_carolina #uconn #diana_taurasi #greenies
South Carolina measles outbreak could end by April 26, health official says South Carolina may officially conclude its ongoing measles outbreak by April 26 if no new cases are reported, according to the state’s leading epidemiologist. The announcement came during a briefing on Wednesday, where officials outlined the conditions under which the outbreak would be declared over. The decision hinges on the absence of additional infections, signaling a potential turning point in the public health crisis. The outbreak, which has raised concerns about vaccination rates and community immunity, has been a focal point for health authorities. The epidemiologist’s statement underscores the importance of continued vigilance, as even a single new case could delay the official closure. Public health officials have emphasized the need for strict adherence to quarantine protocols and vaccination campaigns to prevent further spread. Measles remains a highly contagious disease, with the potential to rapidly escalate in unvaccinated populations. The outbreak has prompted discussions about the role of vaccine hesitancy and access to healthcare services in affected regions. While the state has implemented targeted interventions, including mobile vaccination units and public awareness campaigns, the success of these efforts will be critical in determining the outbreak’s trajectory. Health officials have also highlighted the importance of monitoring high-risk groups, such as schoolchildren and immunocompromised individuals, to mitigate the spread of the virus. The potential end date of April 26 serves as a benchmark for evaluating the effectiveness of current measures. If the outbreak is successfully contained, it could set a precedent for managing similar public health emergencies in the future.#measles_outbreak #south_carolina #epidemiologist #public_health_authorities #vaccination_campaigns
Women's March Madness results: UCLA, UConn, South Carolina cruise into Sweet 16; Virginia upsets Iowa to advance to first Sweet 16 since 2000 The second round of the women’s NCAA tournament concluded with a mix of dominant performances and unexpected upsets, setting the stage for the Sweet 16. Among the standout moments was No. 10 seed Virginia’s thrilling double-overtime victory over No. 2 seed Iowa, marking the Cavaliers’ first Sweet 16 appearance since 2000. The game, played at Iowa’s home court, saw Virginia push through a tightly contested match to secure a 83-75 win, sending the team to Sacramento for the next round. Meanwhile, top seeds UConn, UCLA, and South Carolina advanced without difficulty, showcasing their dominance. UConn’s 98-45 dismantling of Syracuse highlighted their firepower, with Azzi Fudd leading the way for the Huskies. UCLA’s 87-68 win over Oklahoma State was marked by a dominant performance from Lauren Betts, who scored 35 points in her final game at the Bruins’ home court. South Carolina’s 101-61 rout of USC further solidified their position as a powerhouse, with JuJu Watkins and Joyce Edwards playing key roles. Other notable results included No. 6 seed Notre Dame’s 83-73 upset over No. 3 Ohio State, a testament to the unpredictable nature of the tournament. Kentucky and West Virginia’s 74-73 overtime clash added to the day’s excitement, while Vanderbilt’s 75-57 victory over Illinois showcased Mikayla Blakes’ scoring prowess, as the Commodores built a commanding lead. The tournament’s second round featured a blend of high-powered offenses and defensive grit. Virginia’s overtime win over Iowa underscored the underdog spirit, while UCLA’s early control of Oklahoma State demonstrated their depth.#ucla #south_carolina #iowa #uconn #virginia
Chopt Creative Salad Co. Opens Its Only South Carolina Store in Forest Acres A national salad chain, Chopt Creative Salad Co., is set to open its sole location in South Carolina on March 25 at Trenholm Plaza in Forest Acres. The new restaurant will occupy Suite 16 of the bustling shopping center located at 4840 Forest Drive, marking the first reported addition to the area by the City of Forest Acres last August. The store will be situated on the north side of Trenholm Plaza, adjacent to Tazza Kitchen and 16 Handles frozen yogurt shop. The grand opening event will feature free salads and a variety of prizes for customers. The first 50 individuals to place an order, either in-store or via the Chopt app, will receive a branded tote bag. Additionally, guests who sign up for the Chopt rewards program and make a purchase can participate in a prize wheel offering items such as Chopt merchandise, a free salad, and a $20 gift card. The prize wheel will be available from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on opening day, with limited availability. The Forest Acres location will showcase Chopt’s “efficient and sustainable Chopt 4.0 store design,” enabling customers to order through in-store kiosks or via the company’s website and app for pickup. The city highlighted the new addition in an Instagram post, stating, “Your lunch plans just got a major upgrade.” While Chopt may be a new name to Midlands residents, the chain was founded in 2001 in New York City and has expanded across the eastern United States. Its mission is to “make healthy eating exciting for all people” by offering a global-inspired menu that emphasizes locally sourced ingredients. The company partners with farmers and prioritizes a “better process, start to finish” by incorporating fresh, regional produce.#south_carolina #chopt_creative_salad_co #trenholm_plaza #forest_acres #chopt_4_0
South Carolina dominates Southern in NCAA tournament opener with historic margin No. 1 seed South Carolina delivered a crushing 103-34 victory over 16th-seeded Southern in its NCAA tournament opener, marking the Gamecocks’ 17th consecutive home win in the women’s tournament. Joyce Edwards led the charge with 27 points and eight rebounds, showcasing her dominance as the team surged to a 15-0 start and never allowed Southern to mount a threat. The Gamecocks, ranked third in the nation, extended their Colonial Life Arena dominance to 83-1 over the past five seasons, while Southern, the Southwestern Athletic Conference champions, struggled to contain the high-powered attack. Edwards’ performance was a masterclass in efficiency, hitting 11 of 14 field goals and dominating the paint. Her ability to create space for teammates was evident in a highlight-reel play in the second half, where Ta’Niya Latson forced a turnover near midcourt, flipped the ball behind her back to Edwards, and the freshman converted an easy layup as the crowd erupted. “We missed being here. We hadn’t been here in a while,” said coach Dawn Staley, emphasizing the team’s focus on playing with joy and intensity. The Gamecocks’ dominance was immediate, opening the game with a 15-0 run and building a 25-point lead by halftime. South Carolina outscored Southern 32-2 in the third quarter, cementing its control. Edwards acknowledged the team’s initial rust after a two-week layoff following the Southeastern Conference tournament, but the squad quickly adjusted, hitting key shots and executing plays with precision. “As a team, we got together and started hitting shots,” Edwards said, highlighting the team’s resilience.#south_carolina #dawn_staley #southwestern_athletic_conference #joyce_edwards #ta_niya_latson
South Carolina delivered one of the most lopsided victories in women’s NCAA tournament history with a 103-34 first-round win over No. 16 Southern. The Gamecocks’ performance shattered their own record for the largest margin of victory in NCAA tournament history, joining an elite group of six games with a greater point differential. The game, played on Saturday, marked a dominant display of skill and execution, with South Carolina extending its lead in the third quarter to 55 points after outscoring Southern 32-2. Joyce Edwards led the charge with 27 points, shooting 90% from the field and missing just three attempts. Every one of the nine players who suited up for South Carolina contributed at least one point and played 14 minutes or more, showcasing the team’s depth and cohesion. The Gamecocks built a 25-point halftime advantage, which they expanded dramatically in the third quarter. Southern struggled to contain the Gamecocks’ offense, with the Jaguars converting just 1 of 15 shots in the quarter and missing eight attempts in the paint. This victory marked South Carolina’s second-largest margin in NCAA tournament history, following their 108-48 win over No. 16 Tennessee Tech in the 2025 first round. The Gamecocks also set a record in 2022 with a 79-21 win over Howard. However, their latest performance surpassed both, cementing their place in tournament lore. The game’s staggering 69-point gap remains the largest in South Carolina’s NCAA tournament history, though it falls short of the all-time record. The biggest blowout in women’s NCAA tournament history occurred nine years ago when Baylor defeated Texas Southern 119-30, a 89-point margin. That game surpassed the previous record set by UConn’s 140-52 victory over Saint Francis (PA) in 2018.#south_carolina #ncaa_tournament #southern #joyce_edwards #gamecocks
South Carolina Guard Eli Ellis to Enter Transfer Portal South Carolina guard Eli Ellis has announced his intention to enter the NCAA transfer portal, according to On3. The 6-foot freshman, who played for the Gamecocks this season, averaged 8.6 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game. His field goal percentage stood at 38.6%, with a 28% three-point shooting rate. Ellis recorded double-figure scoring in 12 games, including a season-high 20-point performance against Southern Miss. A standout in high school, Ellis earned back-to-back MVP honors at Overtime Elite (GA), averaging over 30 points per game during his junior and senior seasons. Hailing from Hickory, North Carolina, he has amassed a social media following exceeding 2 million across platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and X. Ranked as the No. 71 overall prospect in the 2025 class by Rivals Industry Rankings, Ellis was also listed as the No. 21 shooting guard. The ranking is a weighted average combining data from all three major recruiting media outlets. When he initially committed to South Carolina out of high school, he chose the Gamecocks over offers from the College of Charleston, VCU, Mississippi State, and Virginia Tech. Rivals’ National Recruiting Analyst Jamie Shaw has closely followed Ellis’ development. In high school, Shaw highlighted Ellis’ confidence and ability to thrive in high-pressure situations. “He wants the ball in the biggest of situations,” Shaw noted, emphasizing Ellis’ unwavering self-belief. Ellis’ game is built around his long-range shooting, with the ability to pull up from 30-35 feet in game situations. Defenses often focus on him due to his shooting range, but he consistently creates opportunities with his ball-handling skills.#south_carolina #eli_ellis #on3 #rivals_industry_rankings #james_shaw
