COLUMBIA, S.C. -- Frank Booker was 5 for 9 from 3-point range and scored 17 points to lead South Carolina to a 74-45 victory over Limestone on Wednesday.

Freshman David Beatty added 16 points for the Gamecocks (9-3) while Maik Kotsar had 13.

South Carolina closed the first half on a 17-2 run to take a 34-25 lead. The Gamecocks scored the first 12 points of the second half to take control.

Kenny Hairston had 14 points for the Division II Saints (6-8) and T.J. Shappard added 12.

THE BIG PICTURE

South Carolina coach Frank Martin has not been pleased with the Gamecocks play in recent weeks. Although his squad eventually won comfortably against Limestone, his view probably didn't change. The Gamecocks barely escaped a home loss to Coastal Carolina, then suffered a 16-point loss to instate rival Clemson.

Limestone managed not only to play competitively with its Division I opponent, but outplayed it for the initial 15 minutes. That could build confidence down the road.

UP NEXT:

Limestone travels to Emanuel for the third of a six-game trip.

South Carolina opens Southeastern Conference play at Mississippi on Dec. 31.