Ellington returns for USC basketball

South Carolina has had an up-and-down start to the season, posting convincing wins over Longwood and Florida International, but losing to in-state rival Clemson.  A close loss to No. 20 Baylor has the Gamecocks sitting at 2-2 as they hit the road to face the No. 9 Oklahoma State Cowboys on Friday as part of the Big 12/SEC Challenge.  The squad should get a boost with guard Bruce Ellington returning to the team while the Gamecock football team waits to start their bowl preparations.