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“Kamilla Cardoso Issues Formal Apology Following On-Court Incident in SEC Championship Game”

In the wake of an intense SEC championship game clash between South Carolina and LSU, Kamilla Cardoso, the center for South Carolina’s women’s basketball team, has taken to social media to issue a formal apology for her involvement in an on-court altercation. The incident unfolded with just under two minutes remaining in the fourth quarter of the game, which saw South Carolina emerge victorious with a final score of 79-72 at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena.

Cardoso found herself ejected from the game after she was seen forcefully shoving LSU guard Flau’jae Johnson to the ground near midcourt. This action came in response to a contentious moment earlier in the game, where Johnson deliberately fouled South Carolina guard MiLaysia Fulwiley. The foul prompted a heated exchange of words between Johnson and South Carolina forward Ashlyn Watkins, leading to an escalation in tensions on the court.

Kamilla Cardoso: South Carolina senior center apologizes for role in SEC Championship game scuffle | CNN

In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter) at 6:48 p.m. following the game’s conclusion, Cardoso expressed deep regret for her actions, emphasizing that they did not align with her personal values or the standards upheld by the South Carolina basketball program. She conveyed her sincere apologies for any discomfort or inconvenience caused by her behavior and affirmed her commitment to upholding the principles of respect and sportsmanship in all future endeavors.

Meet Kamilla Cardoso, basketball star who left Brazil as a teen and now leading South Carolina's March Madness quest | The US Sun

Acknowledging the repercussions of her actions, Cardoso accepted full responsibility and expressed her determination to learn from the experience. ESPN’s broadcast of the game indicated that Cardoso would face a suspension from South Carolina’s first NCAA Tournament game as a consequence of her ejection. However, despite this setback, South Carolina maintains its position as the projected No. 1 overall seed in the upcoming tournament bracket and is anticipated to host a first-round home game at the Colonial Life Arena in the coming weeks.

Cardoso’s public apology underscores her commitment to accountability and growth, demonstrating her willingness to address and learn from mistakes. Her statement reflects a dedication to upholding the values of integrity and sportsmanship both on and off the court, serving as a testament to her character and maturity as an athlete.