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LEXINGTON, Ky. (AP) -- Kastine Evans hit two free throws with 8.8 seconds left, and No. 9 Kentucky fought back from a 14-point halftime deficit Thursday to beat No. 14 South Carolina 78-74.

Jennifer O'Neill scored 19 points for the Wildcats.

The loss was the first in 19 games this season for South Carolina (20-5, 8-4 Southeastern Conference) when it led at halftime.

South Carolina shot 18 of 32 in the first half, and its efficiency improved early in the second. The Gamecocks made their first five attempts after halftime and did not miss a shot until 11:05 was left.

But the Wildcats (22-3, 10-2) answered methodically, limiting their turnovers and maximizing opportunities despite a rebounding disadvantage.