Gamecocks’ Cardoso Dominates as South Carolina’s Newest Big Star

The Transition of Kamilla Cardoso from WNBA Benchwarmer to Center Stage

COLUMBIA – Kamilla Cardoso, a key part of the South Carolina Gamecocks, has spent the past two years in the shadows of her All-American teammate Aliyah Boston.

But with Boston now making waves in the WNBA, it’s time for Cardoso, a 6-foot-7 powerhouse, to step into the limelight for the Gamecocks.

Coach’s Expectations: Dominance

“Kamilla must be dominant,” Coach Dawn Staley stated during a post-practice interview. If Cardoso can rise to the occasion, the Gamecocks, known for their deep talent pool yet relatively inexperienced roster, are poised to compete for several titles in the future.

Cardoso provided a sneak peek into her potential during an exhibition match against Rutgers on Oct. 22. She scored 17 points with five rebounds, four assists, and a blocked shot in just 17 minutes of game time.

The Journey of Cardoso: From Brazil to South Carolina

Cardoso, originally from Brazil, relocated to the United States during her middle school years to further develop her basketball skills. She enrolled at Hamilton Heights Christian Academy in Chattanooga, Tennessee, where she grew about six inches, mastered English, and caught the attention of numerous Division I colleges. She chose Syracuse over Staley and South Carolina among others.

During her rookie season (2020-21), Cardoso was named the Atlantic Coast Conference rookie of the year, with an average of 13.6 points, eight rebounds, and nearly three blocks per game. After leaving the Orange, she reunited with Staley and joined the Gamecocks, even though she knew she would play second fiddle to Boston.

Cardoso played significant minutes in 68 games over the past two years for the Gamecocks without starting once. Paired with Boston, their combined efforts down low proved to be a formidable force. The duo shot over 54 percent from the field and blocked 136 shots, contributing to the Gamecocks’ national title win in 2022.

Debbie Antonelli’s Take on Cardoso

Debbie Antonelli, a former North Carolina State standout and now a seasoned TV broadcaster for women’s basketball, has faith in Cardoso’s potential. “We’re going to see that more and more this season,” Antonelli predicted.

Cardoso’s teammates have witnessed her growth during the offseason. Raven Johnson, the new starting point guard, said Cardoso has made her presence felt during fall workouts and scrimmages. Johnson also noted that anyone who takes the ball into Cardoso’s territory is likely to leave with a few bruises.

Staley’s Vision for Cardoso

Coach Staley emphasized that Cardoso needs to expand her shooting range beyond just under the basket. “She’s very unselfish and a lot of times, like Aliyah, will pass out to people who shoot half her field goal percentage,” Staley explained. “Can’t do that. You’ve got to bet on yourself sometimes.”

Cardoso proved her mettle when she was named MVP at the FIBA Women’s AmeriCup this summer, where she helped Brazil defeat the United States in the finals. With the new season kicking off in the French capital, where the Gamecocks will face No. 10 Notre Dame on Nov. 6, Cardoso is expected to play a pivotal role in the team’s success this season.