Lower than every week in the past, we checked out No. 1 South Carolina and proclaimed the Gamecocks an amazing favourite to win the nationwide championship in girls’s basketball. They continue to be the front-runner, however after an eventful SEC event, there are some questions.
High-seeded South Carolina remained undefeated and gained its eighth SEC event title, beating No. 2 seed LSU 79-72 in Sunday’s last, but it surely was not a simple weekend for the Gamecocks. It began Friday with a closer-than-expected 79-68 victory over No. 9 seed Texas A&M.
Saturday, it appeared South Carolina would lose its first recreation this season. The Gamecocks had squandered a 23-point lead and have been trailing No. 5 seed Tennessee by 2 factors with 1.1 seconds left. However heart Kamilla Cardoso made the primary 3-pointer of her faculty profession, saving South Carolina.
That arrange Sunday’s last matchup with LSU. The Tigers had their very own scare Saturday, beating Ole Miss however shedding guard Final-Tear Poa to a concussion in a daunting fall through which she hit her head on the court docket.
The Gamecocks defeated the Tigers 76-70 of their regular-season assembly Jan. 25. Sunday, tempers flared within the rematch. With simply over 2 minutes left, LSU’s Flau’jae Johnson deliberately fouled South Carolina’s MiLaysia Fulwiley to stop a breakaway layup. Johnson then shoved South Carolina’s Ashlyn Watkins, and Johnson subsequently was shoved to the bottom by Cardoso. Each benches emptied, with a number of gamers ejected.
It is anticipated that Cardoso, who was ejected for preventing, will probably be suspended for the Gamecocks’ NCAA event opener.
ESPN weighs in on what we simply noticed on the SEC event and whether or not it impacts South Carolina’s hopes of profitable a 3rd NCAA title.
Daybreak Staley apologizes for South Carolina-LSU scuffle
South Carolina coach Daybreak Staley apologizes for the scuffle that broke out with LSU close to the top of the SEC title recreation.
Does South Carolina appear slightly extra susceptible now?
Voepel: It is arduous to not say that, as a result of the Gamecocks have been a banked-in 3-pointer from Cardoso away from their first loss. That got here after Texas A&M had performed even with them within the second half of the quarterfinals.
“The 24 turnovers are a killer,” South Carolina coach Daybreak Staley mentioned after beating the Aggies. “It did not shoot us within the foot as dangerous because it may, however I’ll say if we play like this within the semifinals, that will probably be our final recreation right here in Greenville.”
It virtually was, however for a unique purpose than turnovers. South Carolina had simply 9 towards Tennessee, however allowed the Girl Vols to attain 50 second-half factors. The Gamecocks additionally made simply 4 of 15 3-pointers towards Tennessee, though the final one was a dagger.
“I am nonetheless shocked. I am unable to consider that she made it,” mentioned teammate Raven Johnson, who threw Cardoso the inbound go.
How South Carolina responded to its greatest risk this season — Staley calmly referred to as Cardoso’s quantity, and he or she delivered — is a optimistic. However the truth that the sport got here right down to that shot needs to be a priority for the Gamecocks, contemplating the massive lead that received away.
Creme: The SEC event opened some eyes to South Carolina’s vulnerability. Every week in the past I used to be speaking about taking the Gamecocks towards the sector. That is not the case anymore.
The Gamecocks want to scrub up plenty of areas. Turnovers is on the prime of the listing, however South Carolina additionally solely shot 31.4% from 3-point vary within the last two video games in Greenville. That is far under the 39.8% they shot within the common season, which ranked third within the nation.
South Carolina celebrates SEC title win over LSU
South Carolina finishes off a victory over LSU to win the SEC title and stay undefeated on the season.
Is there a priority about Cardoso going ahead?
Voepel: Sure. Not as a result of the Gamecocks could not have her within the first spherical. As a No. 1 seed, they’re virtually definitely going to clobber whichever No. 16 seed has to go to Columbia, South Carolina.
The difficulty is Cardoso protecting her cool. Understandably, she was upset that Johnson fouled certainly one of her teammates and shoved one other. Plus, there have been incidents earlier than that within the recreation the place Angel Reese appeared to drag Cardoso’s hair and was referred to as for an intentional foul when her arm hit Cardoso’s face.
However for Cardoso, this follows an incident through which she shoved Germany’s Satou Sabally, who performs for the Dallas Wings, throughout an Olympic qualifying event recreation final month. Sabally was referred to as for a technical for taunting Cardoso, which precipitated the shove.
In each instances, it is comprehensible that Cardoso was indignant. However she’s now going to have officers watching her much more carefully, which is hard whenever you’re typically the tallest participant (6-foot-7) on the court docket. The nice factor for her is that Staley has a number of expertise serving to gamers channel frustration in a extra productive means, and you’ll make certain Staley and her workers will maintain working along with her.
After the sport, Cardoso posted on X, “I want to prolong my sincerest apologies for my actions throughout in the present day’s recreation. My conduct was not consultant of who I’m as an individual or the South Carolina program, and I deeply remorse any discomfort or inconvenience it might have precipitated. I take full accountability for my actions and guarantee you that I’m dedicated to conducting myself with the utmost respect and sportsmanship sooner or later.”
Did anything of concern stand out about South Carolina on the SEC event?
Voepel: Let’s not overreact; the Gamecocks have dominated the league event for a lot of the final decade, and they’re going dwelling with the trophy once more. However there have been points of each recreation in Greenville — be it turnovers, defensive lapses or rebounding — that Staley was not pleased with.
Nonetheless, take a look at what occurred within the 4 Energy 5 tournaments which have been accomplished: South Carolina was the one No. 1 seed/regular-season champion to win.
Within the Large Ten, top-seeded Ohio State fell within the quarterfinals to Maryland, and No. 2 seed Iowa gained the title — though the Hawkeyes needed to rally to beat Nebraska in time beyond regulation.
Within the ACC, No. 1 seed Virginia Tech was with out injured star heart Elizabeth Kitley and misplaced within the semifinals to eventual champion Notre Dame, the No. 4 seed.
And within the Pac-12, No. 2 seed USC beat No. 1 seed Stanford for the title. The Large 12’s prime seed, Oklahoma, is into the semifinals Monday, together with No. 2 seed Texas.
So whereas the Gamecocks could have been rattled a bit this weekend, they nonetheless gained one other championship.
Creme: To Michael’s level about not overreacting, that is nonetheless the deepest championship-caliber crew within the nation. Now the Gamecocks get to step outdoors the SEC within the NCAA event, the place the opposition is not almost as acquainted.
With so many groups — LSU close to the highest of the listing, but additionally together with the Hokies, Notre Dame, UConn and Indiana — taking part in with skinny rosters due to accidents, the Gamecocks nonetheless carry a giant benefit with the completely different lineups Staley has out there. That depth performed a major function in Sunday’s championship recreation and, little question, could have a serious affect on South Carolina’s NCAA event run.
Lower than every week in the past, we checked out No. 1 South Carolina and proclaimed the Gamecocks an amazing favourite to win the nationwide championship in girls’s basketball. They continue to be the front-runner, however after an eventful SEC event, there are some questions.
High-seeded South Carolina remained undefeated and gained its eighth SEC event title, beating No. 2 seed LSU 79-72 in Sunday’s last, but it surely was not a simple weekend for the Gamecocks. It began Friday with a closer-than-expected 79-68 victory over No. 9 seed Texas A&M.
Saturday, it appeared South Carolina would lose its first recreation this season. The Gamecocks had squandered a 23-point lead and have been trailing No. 5 seed Tennessee by 2 factors with 1.1 seconds left. However heart Kamilla Cardoso made the primary 3-pointer of her faculty profession, saving South Carolina.
That arrange Sunday’s last matchup with LSU. The Tigers had their very own scare Saturday, beating Ole Miss however shedding guard Final-Tear Poa to a concussion in a daunting fall through which she hit her head on the court docket.
The Gamecocks defeated the Tigers 76-70 of their regular-season assembly Jan. 25. Sunday, tempers flared within the rematch. With simply over 2 minutes left, LSU’s Flau’jae Johnson deliberately fouled South Carolina’s MiLaysia Fulwiley to stop a breakaway layup. Johnson then shoved South Carolina’s Ashlyn Watkins, and Johnson subsequently was shoved to the bottom by Cardoso. Each benches emptied, with a number of gamers ejected.
It is anticipated that Cardoso, who was ejected for preventing, will probably be suspended for the Gamecocks’ NCAA event opener.
ESPN weighs in on what we simply noticed on the SEC event and whether or not it impacts South Carolina’s hopes of profitable a 3rd NCAA title.
Daybreak Staley apologizes for South Carolina-LSU scuffle
South Carolina coach Daybreak Staley apologizes for the scuffle that broke out with LSU close to the top of the SEC title recreation.
Does South Carolina appear slightly extra susceptible now?
Voepel: It is arduous to not say that, as a result of the Gamecocks have been a banked-in 3-pointer from Cardoso away from their first loss. That got here after Texas A&M had performed even with them within the second half of the quarterfinals.
“The 24 turnovers are a killer,” South Carolina coach Daybreak Staley mentioned after beating the Aggies. “It did not shoot us within the foot as dangerous because it may, however I’ll say if we play like this within the semifinals, that will probably be our final recreation right here in Greenville.”
It virtually was, however for a unique purpose than turnovers. South Carolina had simply 9 towards Tennessee, however allowed the Girl Vols to attain 50 second-half factors. The Gamecocks additionally made simply 4 of 15 3-pointers towards Tennessee, though the final one was a dagger.
“I am nonetheless shocked. I am unable to consider that she made it,” mentioned teammate Raven Johnson, who threw Cardoso the inbound go.
How South Carolina responded to its greatest risk this season — Staley calmly referred to as Cardoso’s quantity, and he or she delivered — is a optimistic. However the truth that the sport got here right down to that shot needs to be a priority for the Gamecocks, contemplating the massive lead that received away.
Creme: The SEC event opened some eyes to South Carolina’s vulnerability. Every week in the past I used to be speaking about taking the Gamecocks towards the sector. That is not the case anymore.
The Gamecocks want to scrub up plenty of areas. Turnovers is on the prime of the listing, however South Carolina additionally solely shot 31.4% from 3-point vary within the last two video games in Greenville. That is far under the 39.8% they shot within the common season, which ranked third within the nation.
South Carolina celebrates SEC title win over LSU
South Carolina finishes off a victory over LSU to win the SEC title and stay undefeated on the season.
Is there a priority about Cardoso going ahead?
Voepel: Sure. Not as a result of the Gamecocks could not have her within the first spherical. As a No. 1 seed, they’re virtually definitely going to clobber whichever No. 16 seed has to go to Columbia, South Carolina.
The difficulty is Cardoso protecting her cool. Understandably, she was upset that Johnson fouled certainly one of her teammates and shoved one other. Plus, there have been incidents earlier than that within the recreation the place Angel Reese appeared to drag Cardoso’s hair and was referred to as for an intentional foul when her arm hit Cardoso’s face.
However for Cardoso, this follows an incident through which she shoved Germany’s Satou Sabally, who performs for the Dallas Wings, throughout an Olympic qualifying event recreation final month. Sabally was referred to as for a technical for taunting Cardoso, which precipitated the shove.
In each instances, it is comprehensible that Cardoso was indignant. However she’s now going to have officers watching her much more carefully, which is hard whenever you’re typically the tallest participant (6-foot-7) on the court docket. The nice factor for her is that Staley has a number of expertise serving to gamers channel frustration in a extra productive means, and you’ll make certain Staley and her workers will maintain working along with her.
After the sport, Cardoso posted on X, “I want to prolong my sincerest apologies for my actions throughout in the present day’s recreation. My conduct was not consultant of who I’m as an individual or the South Carolina program, and I deeply remorse any discomfort or inconvenience it might have precipitated. I take full accountability for my actions and guarantee you that I’m dedicated to conducting myself with the utmost respect and sportsmanship sooner or later.”
Did anything of concern stand out about South Carolina on the SEC event?
Voepel: Let’s not overreact; the Gamecocks have dominated the league event for a lot of the final decade, and they’re going dwelling with the trophy once more. However there have been points of each recreation in Greenville — be it turnovers, defensive lapses or rebounding — that Staley was not pleased with.
Nonetheless, take a look at what occurred within the 4 Energy 5 tournaments which have been accomplished: South Carolina was the one No. 1 seed/regular-season champion to win.
Within the Large Ten, top-seeded Ohio State fell within the quarterfinals to Maryland, and No. 2 seed Iowa gained the title — though the Hawkeyes needed to rally to beat Nebraska in time beyond regulation.
Within the ACC, No. 1 seed Virginia Tech was with out injured star heart Elizabeth Kitley and misplaced within the semifinals to eventual champion Notre Dame, the No. 4 seed.
And within the Pac-12, No. 2 seed USC beat No. 1 seed Stanford for the title. The Large 12’s prime seed, Oklahoma, is into the semifinals Monday, together with No. 2 seed Texas.
So whereas the Gamecocks could have been rattled a bit this weekend, they nonetheless gained one other championship.
Creme: To Michael’s level about not overreacting, that is nonetheless the deepest championship-caliber crew within the nation. Now the Gamecocks get to step outdoors the SEC within the NCAA event, the place the opposition is not almost as acquainted.
With so many groups — LSU close to the highest of the listing, but additionally together with the Hokies, Notre Dame, UConn and Indiana — taking part in with skinny rosters due to accidents, the Gamecocks nonetheless carry a giant benefit with the completely different lineups Staley has out there. That depth performed a major function in Sunday’s championship recreation and, little question, could have a serious affect on South Carolina’s NCAA event run.
Lower than every week in the past, we checked out No. 1 South Carolina and proclaimed the Gamecocks an amazing favourite to win the nationwide championship in girls’s basketball. They continue to be the front-runner, however after an eventful SEC event, there are some questions.
High-seeded South Carolina remained undefeated and gained its eighth SEC event title, beating No. 2 seed LSU 79-72 in Sunday’s last, but it surely was not a simple weekend for the Gamecocks. It began Friday with a closer-than-expected 79-68 victory over No. 9 seed Texas A&M.
Saturday, it appeared South Carolina would lose its first recreation this season. The Gamecocks had squandered a 23-point lead and have been trailing No. 5 seed Tennessee by 2 factors with 1.1 seconds left. However heart Kamilla Cardoso made the primary 3-pointer of her faculty profession, saving South Carolina.
That arrange Sunday’s last matchup with LSU. The Tigers had their very own scare Saturday, beating Ole Miss however shedding guard Final-Tear Poa to a concussion in a daunting fall through which she hit her head on the court docket.
The Gamecocks defeated the Tigers 76-70 of their regular-season assembly Jan. 25. Sunday, tempers flared within the rematch. With simply over 2 minutes left, LSU’s Flau’jae Johnson deliberately fouled South Carolina’s MiLaysia Fulwiley to stop a breakaway layup. Johnson then shoved South Carolina’s Ashlyn Watkins, and Johnson subsequently was shoved to the bottom by Cardoso. Each benches emptied, with a number of gamers ejected.
It is anticipated that Cardoso, who was ejected for preventing, will probably be suspended for the Gamecocks’ NCAA event opener.
ESPN weighs in on what we simply noticed on the SEC event and whether or not it impacts South Carolina’s hopes of profitable a 3rd NCAA title.
Daybreak Staley apologizes for South Carolina-LSU scuffle
South Carolina coach Daybreak Staley apologizes for the scuffle that broke out with LSU close to the top of the SEC title recreation.
Does South Carolina appear slightly extra susceptible now?
Voepel: It is arduous to not say that, as a result of the Gamecocks have been a banked-in 3-pointer from Cardoso away from their first loss. That got here after Texas A&M had performed even with them within the second half of the quarterfinals.
“The 24 turnovers are a killer,” South Carolina coach Daybreak Staley mentioned after beating the Aggies. “It did not shoot us within the foot as dangerous because it may, however I’ll say if we play like this within the semifinals, that will probably be our final recreation right here in Greenville.”
It virtually was, however for a unique purpose than turnovers. South Carolina had simply 9 towards Tennessee, however allowed the Girl Vols to attain 50 second-half factors. The Gamecocks additionally made simply 4 of 15 3-pointers towards Tennessee, though the final one was a dagger.
“I am nonetheless shocked. I am unable to consider that she made it,” mentioned teammate Raven Johnson, who threw Cardoso the inbound go.
How South Carolina responded to its greatest risk this season — Staley calmly referred to as Cardoso’s quantity, and he or she delivered — is a optimistic. However the truth that the sport got here right down to that shot needs to be a priority for the Gamecocks, contemplating the massive lead that received away.
Creme: The SEC event opened some eyes to South Carolina’s vulnerability. Every week in the past I used to be speaking about taking the Gamecocks towards the sector. That is not the case anymore.
The Gamecocks want to scrub up plenty of areas. Turnovers is on the prime of the listing, however South Carolina additionally solely shot 31.4% from 3-point vary within the last two video games in Greenville. That is far under the 39.8% they shot within the common season, which ranked third within the nation.
South Carolina celebrates SEC title win over LSU
South Carolina finishes off a victory over LSU to win the SEC title and stay undefeated on the season.
Is there a priority about Cardoso going ahead?
Voepel: Sure. Not as a result of the Gamecocks could not have her within the first spherical. As a No. 1 seed, they’re virtually definitely going to clobber whichever No. 16 seed has to go to Columbia, South Carolina.
The difficulty is Cardoso protecting her cool. Understandably, she was upset that Johnson fouled certainly one of her teammates and shoved one other. Plus, there have been incidents earlier than that within the recreation the place Angel Reese appeared to drag Cardoso’s hair and was referred to as for an intentional foul when her arm hit Cardoso’s face.
However for Cardoso, this follows an incident through which she shoved Germany’s Satou Sabally, who performs for the Dallas Wings, throughout an Olympic qualifying event recreation final month. Sabally was referred to as for a technical for taunting Cardoso, which precipitated the shove.
In each instances, it is comprehensible that Cardoso was indignant. However she’s now going to have officers watching her much more carefully, which is hard whenever you’re typically the tallest participant (6-foot-7) on the court docket. The nice factor for her is that Staley has a number of expertise serving to gamers channel frustration in a extra productive means, and you’ll make certain Staley and her workers will maintain working along with her.
After the sport, Cardoso posted on X, “I want to prolong my sincerest apologies for my actions throughout in the present day’s recreation. My conduct was not consultant of who I’m as an individual or the South Carolina program, and I deeply remorse any discomfort or inconvenience it might have precipitated. I take full accountability for my actions and guarantee you that I’m dedicated to conducting myself with the utmost respect and sportsmanship sooner or later.”
Did anything of concern stand out about South Carolina on the SEC event?
Voepel: Let’s not overreact; the Gamecocks have dominated the league event for a lot of the final decade, and they’re going dwelling with the trophy once more. However there have been points of each recreation in Greenville — be it turnovers, defensive lapses or rebounding — that Staley was not pleased with.
Nonetheless, take a look at what occurred within the 4 Energy 5 tournaments which have been accomplished: South Carolina was the one No. 1 seed/regular-season champion to win.
Within the Large Ten, top-seeded Ohio State fell within the quarterfinals to Maryland, and No. 2 seed Iowa gained the title — though the Hawkeyes needed to rally to beat Nebraska in time beyond regulation.
Within the ACC, No. 1 seed Virginia Tech was with out injured star heart Elizabeth Kitley and misplaced within the semifinals to eventual champion Notre Dame, the No. 4 seed.
And within the Pac-12, No. 2 seed USC beat No. 1 seed Stanford for the title. The Large 12’s prime seed, Oklahoma, is into the semifinals Monday, together with No. 2 seed Texas.
So whereas the Gamecocks could have been rattled a bit this weekend, they nonetheless gained one other championship.
Creme: To Michael’s level about not overreacting, that is nonetheless the deepest championship-caliber crew within the nation. Now the Gamecocks get to step outdoors the SEC within the NCAA event, the place the opposition is not almost as acquainted.
With so many groups — LSU close to the highest of the listing, but additionally together with the Hokies, Notre Dame, UConn and Indiana — taking part in with skinny rosters due to accidents, the Gamecocks nonetheless carry a giant benefit with the completely different lineups Staley has out there. That depth performed a major function in Sunday’s championship recreation and, little question, could have a serious affect on South Carolina’s NCAA event run.
Lower than every week in the past, we checked out No. 1 South Carolina and proclaimed the Gamecocks an amazing favourite to win the nationwide championship in girls’s basketball. They continue to be the front-runner, however after an eventful SEC event, there are some questions.
High-seeded South Carolina remained undefeated and gained its eighth SEC event title, beating No. 2 seed LSU 79-72 in Sunday’s last, but it surely was not a simple weekend for the Gamecocks. It began Friday with a closer-than-expected 79-68 victory over No. 9 seed Texas A&M.
Saturday, it appeared South Carolina would lose its first recreation this season. The Gamecocks had squandered a 23-point lead and have been trailing No. 5 seed Tennessee by 2 factors with 1.1 seconds left. However heart Kamilla Cardoso made the primary 3-pointer of her faculty profession, saving South Carolina.
That arrange Sunday’s last matchup with LSU. The Tigers had their very own scare Saturday, beating Ole Miss however shedding guard Final-Tear Poa to a concussion in a daunting fall through which she hit her head on the court docket.
The Gamecocks defeated the Tigers 76-70 of their regular-season assembly Jan. 25. Sunday, tempers flared within the rematch. With simply over 2 minutes left, LSU’s Flau’jae Johnson deliberately fouled South Carolina’s MiLaysia Fulwiley to stop a breakaway layup. Johnson then shoved South Carolina’s Ashlyn Watkins, and Johnson subsequently was shoved to the bottom by Cardoso. Each benches emptied, with a number of gamers ejected.
It is anticipated that Cardoso, who was ejected for preventing, will probably be suspended for the Gamecocks’ NCAA event opener.
ESPN weighs in on what we simply noticed on the SEC event and whether or not it impacts South Carolina’s hopes of profitable a 3rd NCAA title.
Daybreak Staley apologizes for South Carolina-LSU scuffle
South Carolina coach Daybreak Staley apologizes for the scuffle that broke out with LSU close to the top of the SEC title recreation.
Does South Carolina appear slightly extra susceptible now?
Voepel: It is arduous to not say that, as a result of the Gamecocks have been a banked-in 3-pointer from Cardoso away from their first loss. That got here after Texas A&M had performed even with them within the second half of the quarterfinals.
“The 24 turnovers are a killer,” South Carolina coach Daybreak Staley mentioned after beating the Aggies. “It did not shoot us within the foot as dangerous because it may, however I’ll say if we play like this within the semifinals, that will probably be our final recreation right here in Greenville.”
It virtually was, however for a unique purpose than turnovers. South Carolina had simply 9 towards Tennessee, however allowed the Girl Vols to attain 50 second-half factors. The Gamecocks additionally made simply 4 of 15 3-pointers towards Tennessee, though the final one was a dagger.
“I am nonetheless shocked. I am unable to consider that she made it,” mentioned teammate Raven Johnson, who threw Cardoso the inbound go.
How South Carolina responded to its greatest risk this season — Staley calmly referred to as Cardoso’s quantity, and he or she delivered — is a optimistic. However the truth that the sport got here right down to that shot needs to be a priority for the Gamecocks, contemplating the massive lead that received away.
Creme: The SEC event opened some eyes to South Carolina’s vulnerability. Every week in the past I used to be speaking about taking the Gamecocks towards the sector. That is not the case anymore.
The Gamecocks want to scrub up plenty of areas. Turnovers is on the prime of the listing, however South Carolina additionally solely shot 31.4% from 3-point vary within the last two video games in Greenville. That is far under the 39.8% they shot within the common season, which ranked third within the nation.
South Carolina celebrates SEC title win over LSU
South Carolina finishes off a victory over LSU to win the SEC title and stay undefeated on the season.
Is there a priority about Cardoso going ahead?
Voepel: Sure. Not as a result of the Gamecocks could not have her within the first spherical. As a No. 1 seed, they’re virtually definitely going to clobber whichever No. 16 seed has to go to Columbia, South Carolina.
The difficulty is Cardoso protecting her cool. Understandably, she was upset that Johnson fouled certainly one of her teammates and shoved one other. Plus, there have been incidents earlier than that within the recreation the place Angel Reese appeared to drag Cardoso’s hair and was referred to as for an intentional foul when her arm hit Cardoso’s face.
However for Cardoso, this follows an incident through which she shoved Germany’s Satou Sabally, who performs for the Dallas Wings, throughout an Olympic qualifying event recreation final month. Sabally was referred to as for a technical for taunting Cardoso, which precipitated the shove.
In each instances, it is comprehensible that Cardoso was indignant. However she’s now going to have officers watching her much more carefully, which is hard whenever you’re typically the tallest participant (6-foot-7) on the court docket. The nice factor for her is that Staley has a number of expertise serving to gamers channel frustration in a extra productive means, and you’ll make certain Staley and her workers will maintain working along with her.
After the sport, Cardoso posted on X, “I want to prolong my sincerest apologies for my actions throughout in the present day’s recreation. My conduct was not consultant of who I’m as an individual or the South Carolina program, and I deeply remorse any discomfort or inconvenience it might have precipitated. I take full accountability for my actions and guarantee you that I’m dedicated to conducting myself with the utmost respect and sportsmanship sooner or later.”
Did anything of concern stand out about South Carolina on the SEC event?
Voepel: Let’s not overreact; the Gamecocks have dominated the league event for a lot of the final decade, and they’re going dwelling with the trophy once more. However there have been points of each recreation in Greenville — be it turnovers, defensive lapses or rebounding — that Staley was not pleased with.
Nonetheless, take a look at what occurred within the 4 Energy 5 tournaments which have been accomplished: South Carolina was the one No. 1 seed/regular-season champion to win.
Within the Large Ten, top-seeded Ohio State fell within the quarterfinals to Maryland, and No. 2 seed Iowa gained the title — though the Hawkeyes needed to rally to beat Nebraska in time beyond regulation.
Within the ACC, No. 1 seed Virginia Tech was with out injured star heart Elizabeth Kitley and misplaced within the semifinals to eventual champion Notre Dame, the No. 4 seed.
And within the Pac-12, No. 2 seed USC beat No. 1 seed Stanford for the title. The Large 12’s prime seed, Oklahoma, is into the semifinals Monday, together with No. 2 seed Texas.
So whereas the Gamecocks could have been rattled a bit this weekend, they nonetheless gained one other championship.
Creme: To Michael’s level about not overreacting, that is nonetheless the deepest championship-caliber crew within the nation. Now the Gamecocks get to step outdoors the SEC within the NCAA event, the place the opposition is not almost as acquainted.
With so many groups — LSU close to the highest of the listing, but additionally together with the Hokies, Notre Dame, UConn and Indiana — taking part in with skinny rosters due to accidents, the Gamecocks nonetheless carry a giant benefit with the completely different lineups Staley has out there. That depth performed a major function in Sunday’s championship recreation and, little question, could have a serious affect on South Carolina’s NCAA event run.
Lower than every week in the past, we checked out No. 1 South Carolina and proclaimed the Gamecocks an amazing favourite to win the nationwide championship in girls’s basketball. They continue to be the front-runner, however after an eventful SEC event, there are some questions.
High-seeded South Carolina remained undefeated and gained its eighth SEC event title, beating No. 2 seed LSU 79-72 in Sunday’s last, but it surely was not a simple weekend for the Gamecocks. It began Friday with a closer-than-expected 79-68 victory over No. 9 seed Texas A&M.
Saturday, it appeared South Carolina would lose its first recreation this season. The Gamecocks had squandered a 23-point lead and have been trailing No. 5 seed Tennessee by 2 factors with 1.1 seconds left. However heart Kamilla Cardoso made the primary 3-pointer of her faculty profession, saving South Carolina.
That arrange Sunday’s last matchup with LSU. The Tigers had their very own scare Saturday, beating Ole Miss however shedding guard Final-Tear Poa to a concussion in a daunting fall through which she hit her head on the court docket.
The Gamecocks defeated the Tigers 76-70 of their regular-season assembly Jan. 25. Sunday, tempers flared within the rematch. With simply over 2 minutes left, LSU’s Flau’jae Johnson deliberately fouled South Carolina’s MiLaysia Fulwiley to stop a breakaway layup. Johnson then shoved South Carolina’s Ashlyn Watkins, and Johnson subsequently was shoved to the bottom by Cardoso. Each benches emptied, with a number of gamers ejected.
It is anticipated that Cardoso, who was ejected for preventing, will probably be suspended for the Gamecocks’ NCAA event opener.
ESPN weighs in on what we simply noticed on the SEC event and whether or not it impacts South Carolina’s hopes of profitable a 3rd NCAA title.
Daybreak Staley apologizes for South Carolina-LSU scuffle
South Carolina coach Daybreak Staley apologizes for the scuffle that broke out with LSU close to the top of the SEC title recreation.
Does South Carolina appear slightly extra susceptible now?
Voepel: It is arduous to not say that, as a result of the Gamecocks have been a banked-in 3-pointer from Cardoso away from their first loss. That got here after Texas A&M had performed even with them within the second half of the quarterfinals.
“The 24 turnovers are a killer,” South Carolina coach Daybreak Staley mentioned after beating the Aggies. “It did not shoot us within the foot as dangerous because it may, however I’ll say if we play like this within the semifinals, that will probably be our final recreation right here in Greenville.”
It virtually was, however for a unique purpose than turnovers. South Carolina had simply 9 towards Tennessee, however allowed the Girl Vols to attain 50 second-half factors. The Gamecocks additionally made simply 4 of 15 3-pointers towards Tennessee, though the final one was a dagger.
“I am nonetheless shocked. I am unable to consider that she made it,” mentioned teammate Raven Johnson, who threw Cardoso the inbound go.
How South Carolina responded to its greatest risk this season — Staley calmly referred to as Cardoso’s quantity, and he or she delivered — is a optimistic. However the truth that the sport got here right down to that shot needs to be a priority for the Gamecocks, contemplating the massive lead that received away.
Creme: The SEC event opened some eyes to South Carolina’s vulnerability. Every week in the past I used to be speaking about taking the Gamecocks towards the sector. That is not the case anymore.
The Gamecocks want to scrub up plenty of areas. Turnovers is on the prime of the listing, however South Carolina additionally solely shot 31.4% from 3-point vary within the last two video games in Greenville. That is far under the 39.8% they shot within the common season, which ranked third within the nation.
South Carolina celebrates SEC title win over LSU
South Carolina finishes off a victory over LSU to win the SEC title and stay undefeated on the season.
Is there a priority about Cardoso going ahead?
Voepel: Sure. Not as a result of the Gamecocks could not have her within the first spherical. As a No. 1 seed, they’re virtually definitely going to clobber whichever No. 16 seed has to go to Columbia, South Carolina.
The difficulty is Cardoso protecting her cool. Understandably, she was upset that Johnson fouled certainly one of her teammates and shoved one other. Plus, there have been incidents earlier than that within the recreation the place Angel Reese appeared to drag Cardoso’s hair and was referred to as for an intentional foul when her arm hit Cardoso’s face.
However for Cardoso, this follows an incident through which she shoved Germany’s Satou Sabally, who performs for the Dallas Wings, throughout an Olympic qualifying event recreation final month. Sabally was referred to as for a technical for taunting Cardoso, which precipitated the shove.
In each instances, it is comprehensible that Cardoso was indignant. However she’s now going to have officers watching her much more carefully, which is hard whenever you’re typically the tallest participant (6-foot-7) on the court docket. The nice factor for her is that Staley has a number of expertise serving to gamers channel frustration in a extra productive means, and you’ll make certain Staley and her workers will maintain working along with her.
After the sport, Cardoso posted on X, “I want to prolong my sincerest apologies for my actions throughout in the present day’s recreation. My conduct was not consultant of who I’m as an individual or the South Carolina program, and I deeply remorse any discomfort or inconvenience it might have precipitated. I take full accountability for my actions and guarantee you that I’m dedicated to conducting myself with the utmost respect and sportsmanship sooner or later.”
Did anything of concern stand out about South Carolina on the SEC event?
Voepel: Let’s not overreact; the Gamecocks have dominated the league event for a lot of the final decade, and they’re going dwelling with the trophy once more. However there have been points of each recreation in Greenville — be it turnovers, defensive lapses or rebounding — that Staley was not pleased with.
Nonetheless, take a look at what occurred within the 4 Energy 5 tournaments which have been accomplished: South Carolina was the one No. 1 seed/regular-season champion to win.
Within the Large Ten, top-seeded Ohio State fell within the quarterfinals to Maryland, and No. 2 seed Iowa gained the title — though the Hawkeyes needed to rally to beat Nebraska in time beyond regulation.
Within the ACC, No. 1 seed Virginia Tech was with out injured star heart Elizabeth Kitley and misplaced within the semifinals to eventual champion Notre Dame, the No. 4 seed.
And within the Pac-12, No. 2 seed USC beat No. 1 seed Stanford for the title. The Large 12’s prime seed, Oklahoma, is into the semifinals Monday, together with No. 2 seed Texas.
So whereas the Gamecocks could have been rattled a bit this weekend, they nonetheless gained one other championship.
Creme: To Michael’s level about not overreacting, that is nonetheless the deepest championship-caliber crew within the nation. Now the Gamecocks get to step outdoors the SEC within the NCAA event, the place the opposition is not almost as acquainted.
With so many groups — LSU close to the highest of the listing, but additionally together with the Hokies, Notre Dame, UConn and Indiana — taking part in with skinny rosters due to accidents, the Gamecocks nonetheless carry a giant benefit with the completely different lineups Staley has out there. That depth performed a major function in Sunday’s championship recreation and, little question, could have a serious affect on South Carolina’s NCAA event run.
Lower than every week in the past, we checked out No. 1 South Carolina and proclaimed the Gamecocks an amazing favourite to win the nationwide championship in girls’s basketball. They continue to be the front-runner, however after an eventful SEC event, there are some questions.
High-seeded South Carolina remained undefeated and gained its eighth SEC event title, beating No. 2 seed LSU 79-72 in Sunday’s last, but it surely was not a simple weekend for the Gamecocks. It began Friday with a closer-than-expected 79-68 victory over No. 9 seed Texas A&M.
Saturday, it appeared South Carolina would lose its first recreation this season. The Gamecocks had squandered a 23-point lead and have been trailing No. 5 seed Tennessee by 2 factors with 1.1 seconds left. However heart Kamilla Cardoso made the primary 3-pointer of her faculty profession, saving South Carolina.
That arrange Sunday’s last matchup with LSU. The Tigers had their very own scare Saturday, beating Ole Miss however shedding guard Final-Tear Poa to a concussion in a daunting fall through which she hit her head on the court docket.
The Gamecocks defeated the Tigers 76-70 of their regular-season assembly Jan. 25. Sunday, tempers flared within the rematch. With simply over 2 minutes left, LSU’s Flau’jae Johnson deliberately fouled South Carolina’s MiLaysia Fulwiley to stop a breakaway layup. Johnson then shoved South Carolina’s Ashlyn Watkins, and Johnson subsequently was shoved to the bottom by Cardoso. Each benches emptied, with a number of gamers ejected.
It is anticipated that Cardoso, who was ejected for preventing, will probably be suspended for the Gamecocks’ NCAA event opener.
ESPN weighs in on what we simply noticed on the SEC event and whether or not it impacts South Carolina’s hopes of profitable a 3rd NCAA title.
Daybreak Staley apologizes for South Carolina-LSU scuffle
South Carolina coach Daybreak Staley apologizes for the scuffle that broke out with LSU close to the top of the SEC title recreation.
Does South Carolina appear slightly extra susceptible now?
Voepel: It is arduous to not say that, as a result of the Gamecocks have been a banked-in 3-pointer from Cardoso away from their first loss. That got here after Texas A&M had performed even with them within the second half of the quarterfinals.
“The 24 turnovers are a killer,” South Carolina coach Daybreak Staley mentioned after beating the Aggies. “It did not shoot us within the foot as dangerous because it may, however I’ll say if we play like this within the semifinals, that will probably be our final recreation right here in Greenville.”
It virtually was, however for a unique purpose than turnovers. South Carolina had simply 9 towards Tennessee, however allowed the Girl Vols to attain 50 second-half factors. The Gamecocks additionally made simply 4 of 15 3-pointers towards Tennessee, though the final one was a dagger.
“I am nonetheless shocked. I am unable to consider that she made it,” mentioned teammate Raven Johnson, who threw Cardoso the inbound go.
How South Carolina responded to its greatest risk this season — Staley calmly referred to as Cardoso’s quantity, and he or she delivered — is a optimistic. However the truth that the sport got here right down to that shot needs to be a priority for the Gamecocks, contemplating the massive lead that received away.
Creme: The SEC event opened some eyes to South Carolina’s vulnerability. Every week in the past I used to be speaking about taking the Gamecocks towards the sector. That is not the case anymore.
The Gamecocks want to scrub up plenty of areas. Turnovers is on the prime of the listing, however South Carolina additionally solely shot 31.4% from 3-point vary within the last two video games in Greenville. That is far under the 39.8% they shot within the common season, which ranked third within the nation.
South Carolina celebrates SEC title win over LSU
South Carolina finishes off a victory over LSU to win the SEC title and stay undefeated on the season.
Is there a priority about Cardoso going ahead?
Voepel: Sure. Not as a result of the Gamecocks could not have her within the first spherical. As a No. 1 seed, they’re virtually definitely going to clobber whichever No. 16 seed has to go to Columbia, South Carolina.
The difficulty is Cardoso protecting her cool. Understandably, she was upset that Johnson fouled certainly one of her teammates and shoved one other. Plus, there have been incidents earlier than that within the recreation the place Angel Reese appeared to drag Cardoso’s hair and was referred to as for an intentional foul when her arm hit Cardoso’s face.
However for Cardoso, this follows an incident through which she shoved Germany’s Satou Sabally, who performs for the Dallas Wings, throughout an Olympic qualifying event recreation final month. Sabally was referred to as for a technical for taunting Cardoso, which precipitated the shove.
In each instances, it is comprehensible that Cardoso was indignant. However she’s now going to have officers watching her much more carefully, which is hard whenever you’re typically the tallest participant (6-foot-7) on the court docket. The nice factor for her is that Staley has a number of expertise serving to gamers channel frustration in a extra productive means, and you’ll make certain Staley and her workers will maintain working along with her.
After the sport, Cardoso posted on X, “I want to prolong my sincerest apologies for my actions throughout in the present day’s recreation. My conduct was not consultant of who I’m as an individual or the South Carolina program, and I deeply remorse any discomfort or inconvenience it might have precipitated. I take full accountability for my actions and guarantee you that I’m dedicated to conducting myself with the utmost respect and sportsmanship sooner or later.”
Did anything of concern stand out about South Carolina on the SEC event?
Voepel: Let’s not overreact; the Gamecocks have dominated the league event for a lot of the final decade, and they’re going dwelling with the trophy once more. However there have been points of each recreation in Greenville — be it turnovers, defensive lapses or rebounding — that Staley was not pleased with.
Nonetheless, take a look at what occurred within the 4 Energy 5 tournaments which have been accomplished: South Carolina was the one No. 1 seed/regular-season champion to win.
Within the Large Ten, top-seeded Ohio State fell within the quarterfinals to Maryland, and No. 2 seed Iowa gained the title — though the Hawkeyes needed to rally to beat Nebraska in time beyond regulation.
Within the ACC, No. 1 seed Virginia Tech was with out injured star heart Elizabeth Kitley and misplaced within the semifinals to eventual champion Notre Dame, the No. 4 seed.
And within the Pac-12, No. 2 seed USC beat No. 1 seed Stanford for the title. The Large 12’s prime seed, Oklahoma, is into the semifinals Monday, together with No. 2 seed Texas.
So whereas the Gamecocks could have been rattled a bit this weekend, they nonetheless gained one other championship.
Creme: To Michael’s level about not overreacting, that is nonetheless the deepest championship-caliber crew within the nation. Now the Gamecocks get to step outdoors the SEC within the NCAA event, the place the opposition is not almost as acquainted.
With so many groups — LSU close to the highest of the listing, but additionally together with the Hokies, Notre Dame, UConn and Indiana — taking part in with skinny rosters due to accidents, the Gamecocks nonetheless carry a giant benefit with the completely different lineups Staley has out there. That depth performed a major function in Sunday’s championship recreation and, little question, could have a serious affect on South Carolina’s NCAA event run.
Lower than every week in the past, we checked out No. 1 South Carolina and proclaimed the Gamecocks an amazing favourite to win the nationwide championship in girls’s basketball. They continue to be the front-runner, however after an eventful SEC event, there are some questions.
High-seeded South Carolina remained undefeated and gained its eighth SEC event title, beating No. 2 seed LSU 79-72 in Sunday’s last, but it surely was not a simple weekend for the Gamecocks. It began Friday with a closer-than-expected 79-68 victory over No. 9 seed Texas A&M.
Saturday, it appeared South Carolina would lose its first recreation this season. The Gamecocks had squandered a 23-point lead and have been trailing No. 5 seed Tennessee by 2 factors with 1.1 seconds left. However heart Kamilla Cardoso made the primary 3-pointer of her faculty profession, saving South Carolina.
That arrange Sunday’s last matchup with LSU. The Tigers had their very own scare Saturday, beating Ole Miss however shedding guard Final-Tear Poa to a concussion in a daunting fall through which she hit her head on the court docket.
The Gamecocks defeated the Tigers 76-70 of their regular-season assembly Jan. 25. Sunday, tempers flared within the rematch. With simply over 2 minutes left, LSU’s Flau’jae Johnson deliberately fouled South Carolina’s MiLaysia Fulwiley to stop a breakaway layup. Johnson then shoved South Carolina’s Ashlyn Watkins, and Johnson subsequently was shoved to the bottom by Cardoso. Each benches emptied, with a number of gamers ejected.
It is anticipated that Cardoso, who was ejected for preventing, will probably be suspended for the Gamecocks’ NCAA event opener.
ESPN weighs in on what we simply noticed on the SEC event and whether or not it impacts South Carolina’s hopes of profitable a 3rd NCAA title.
Daybreak Staley apologizes for South Carolina-LSU scuffle
South Carolina coach Daybreak Staley apologizes for the scuffle that broke out with LSU close to the top of the SEC title recreation.
Does South Carolina appear slightly extra susceptible now?
Voepel: It is arduous to not say that, as a result of the Gamecocks have been a banked-in 3-pointer from Cardoso away from their first loss. That got here after Texas A&M had performed even with them within the second half of the quarterfinals.
“The 24 turnovers are a killer,” South Carolina coach Daybreak Staley mentioned after beating the Aggies. “It did not shoot us within the foot as dangerous because it may, however I’ll say if we play like this within the semifinals, that will probably be our final recreation right here in Greenville.”
It virtually was, however for a unique purpose than turnovers. South Carolina had simply 9 towards Tennessee, however allowed the Girl Vols to attain 50 second-half factors. The Gamecocks additionally made simply 4 of 15 3-pointers towards Tennessee, though the final one was a dagger.
“I am nonetheless shocked. I am unable to consider that she made it,” mentioned teammate Raven Johnson, who threw Cardoso the inbound go.
How South Carolina responded to its greatest risk this season — Staley calmly referred to as Cardoso’s quantity, and he or she delivered — is a optimistic. However the truth that the sport got here right down to that shot needs to be a priority for the Gamecocks, contemplating the massive lead that received away.
Creme: The SEC event opened some eyes to South Carolina’s vulnerability. Every week in the past I used to be speaking about taking the Gamecocks towards the sector. That is not the case anymore.
The Gamecocks want to scrub up plenty of areas. Turnovers is on the prime of the listing, however South Carolina additionally solely shot 31.4% from 3-point vary within the last two video games in Greenville. That is far under the 39.8% they shot within the common season, which ranked third within the nation.
South Carolina celebrates SEC title win over LSU
South Carolina finishes off a victory over LSU to win the SEC title and stay undefeated on the season.
Is there a priority about Cardoso going ahead?
Voepel: Sure. Not as a result of the Gamecocks could not have her within the first spherical. As a No. 1 seed, they’re virtually definitely going to clobber whichever No. 16 seed has to go to Columbia, South Carolina.
The difficulty is Cardoso protecting her cool. Understandably, she was upset that Johnson fouled certainly one of her teammates and shoved one other. Plus, there have been incidents earlier than that within the recreation the place Angel Reese appeared to drag Cardoso’s hair and was referred to as for an intentional foul when her arm hit Cardoso’s face.
However for Cardoso, this follows an incident through which she shoved Germany’s Satou Sabally, who performs for the Dallas Wings, throughout an Olympic qualifying event recreation final month. Sabally was referred to as for a technical for taunting Cardoso, which precipitated the shove.
In each instances, it is comprehensible that Cardoso was indignant. However she’s now going to have officers watching her much more carefully, which is hard whenever you’re typically the tallest participant (6-foot-7) on the court docket. The nice factor for her is that Staley has a number of expertise serving to gamers channel frustration in a extra productive means, and you’ll make certain Staley and her workers will maintain working along with her.
After the sport, Cardoso posted on X, “I want to prolong my sincerest apologies for my actions throughout in the present day’s recreation. My conduct was not consultant of who I’m as an individual or the South Carolina program, and I deeply remorse any discomfort or inconvenience it might have precipitated. I take full accountability for my actions and guarantee you that I’m dedicated to conducting myself with the utmost respect and sportsmanship sooner or later.”
Did anything of concern stand out about South Carolina on the SEC event?
Voepel: Let’s not overreact; the Gamecocks have dominated the league event for a lot of the final decade, and they’re going dwelling with the trophy once more. However there have been points of each recreation in Greenville — be it turnovers, defensive lapses or rebounding — that Staley was not pleased with.
Nonetheless, take a look at what occurred within the 4 Energy 5 tournaments which have been accomplished: South Carolina was the one No. 1 seed/regular-season champion to win.
Within the Large Ten, top-seeded Ohio State fell within the quarterfinals to Maryland, and No. 2 seed Iowa gained the title — though the Hawkeyes needed to rally to beat Nebraska in time beyond regulation.
Within the ACC, No. 1 seed Virginia Tech was with out injured star heart Elizabeth Kitley and misplaced within the semifinals to eventual champion Notre Dame, the No. 4 seed.
And within the Pac-12, No. 2 seed USC beat No. 1 seed Stanford for the title. The Large 12’s prime seed, Oklahoma, is into the semifinals Monday, together with No. 2 seed Texas.
So whereas the Gamecocks could have been rattled a bit this weekend, they nonetheless gained one other championship.
Creme: To Michael’s level about not overreacting, that is nonetheless the deepest championship-caliber crew within the nation. Now the Gamecocks get to step outdoors the SEC within the NCAA event, the place the opposition is not almost as acquainted.
With so many groups — LSU close to the highest of the listing, but additionally together with the Hokies, Notre Dame, UConn and Indiana — taking part in with skinny rosters due to accidents, the Gamecocks nonetheless carry a giant benefit with the completely different lineups Staley has out there. That depth performed a major function in Sunday’s championship recreation and, little question, could have a serious affect on South Carolina’s NCAA event run.
Lower than every week in the past, we checked out No. 1 South Carolina and proclaimed the Gamecocks an amazing favourite to win the nationwide championship in girls’s basketball. They continue to be the front-runner, however after an eventful SEC event, there are some questions.
High-seeded South Carolina remained undefeated and gained its eighth SEC event title, beating No. 2 seed LSU 79-72 in Sunday’s last, but it surely was not a simple weekend for the Gamecocks. It began Friday with a closer-than-expected 79-68 victory over No. 9 seed Texas A&M.
Saturday, it appeared South Carolina would lose its first recreation this season. The Gamecocks had squandered a 23-point lead and have been trailing No. 5 seed Tennessee by 2 factors with 1.1 seconds left. However heart Kamilla Cardoso made the primary 3-pointer of her faculty profession, saving South Carolina.
That arrange Sunday’s last matchup with LSU. The Tigers had their very own scare Saturday, beating Ole Miss however shedding guard Final-Tear Poa to a concussion in a daunting fall through which she hit her head on the court docket.
The Gamecocks defeated the Tigers 76-70 of their regular-season assembly Jan. 25. Sunday, tempers flared within the rematch. With simply over 2 minutes left, LSU’s Flau’jae Johnson deliberately fouled South Carolina’s MiLaysia Fulwiley to stop a breakaway layup. Johnson then shoved South Carolina’s Ashlyn Watkins, and Johnson subsequently was shoved to the bottom by Cardoso. Each benches emptied, with a number of gamers ejected.
It is anticipated that Cardoso, who was ejected for preventing, will probably be suspended for the Gamecocks’ NCAA event opener.
ESPN weighs in on what we simply noticed on the SEC event and whether or not it impacts South Carolina’s hopes of profitable a 3rd NCAA title.
Daybreak Staley apologizes for South Carolina-LSU scuffle
South Carolina coach Daybreak Staley apologizes for the scuffle that broke out with LSU close to the top of the SEC title recreation.
Does South Carolina appear slightly extra susceptible now?
Voepel: It is arduous to not say that, as a result of the Gamecocks have been a banked-in 3-pointer from Cardoso away from their first loss. That got here after Texas A&M had performed even with them within the second half of the quarterfinals.
“The 24 turnovers are a killer,” South Carolina coach Daybreak Staley mentioned after beating the Aggies. “It did not shoot us within the foot as dangerous because it may, however I’ll say if we play like this within the semifinals, that will probably be our final recreation right here in Greenville.”
It virtually was, however for a unique purpose than turnovers. South Carolina had simply 9 towards Tennessee, however allowed the Girl Vols to attain 50 second-half factors. The Gamecocks additionally made simply 4 of 15 3-pointers towards Tennessee, though the final one was a dagger.
“I am nonetheless shocked. I am unable to consider that she made it,” mentioned teammate Raven Johnson, who threw Cardoso the inbound go.
How South Carolina responded to its greatest risk this season — Staley calmly referred to as Cardoso’s quantity, and he or she delivered — is a optimistic. However the truth that the sport got here right down to that shot needs to be a priority for the Gamecocks, contemplating the massive lead that received away.
Creme: The SEC event opened some eyes to South Carolina’s vulnerability. Every week in the past I used to be speaking about taking the Gamecocks towards the sector. That is not the case anymore.
The Gamecocks want to scrub up plenty of areas. Turnovers is on the prime of the listing, however South Carolina additionally solely shot 31.4% from 3-point vary within the last two video games in Greenville. That is far under the 39.8% they shot within the common season, which ranked third within the nation.
South Carolina celebrates SEC title win over LSU
South Carolina finishes off a victory over LSU to win the SEC title and stay undefeated on the season.
Is there a priority about Cardoso going ahead?
Voepel: Sure. Not as a result of the Gamecocks could not have her within the first spherical. As a No. 1 seed, they’re virtually definitely going to clobber whichever No. 16 seed has to go to Columbia, South Carolina.
The difficulty is Cardoso protecting her cool. Understandably, she was upset that Johnson fouled certainly one of her teammates and shoved one other. Plus, there have been incidents earlier than that within the recreation the place Angel Reese appeared to drag Cardoso’s hair and was referred to as for an intentional foul when her arm hit Cardoso’s face.
However for Cardoso, this follows an incident through which she shoved Germany’s Satou Sabally, who performs for the Dallas Wings, throughout an Olympic qualifying event recreation final month. Sabally was referred to as for a technical for taunting Cardoso, which precipitated the shove.
In each instances, it is comprehensible that Cardoso was indignant. However she’s now going to have officers watching her much more carefully, which is hard whenever you’re typically the tallest participant (6-foot-7) on the court docket. The nice factor for her is that Staley has a number of expertise serving to gamers channel frustration in a extra productive means, and you’ll make certain Staley and her workers will maintain working along with her.
After the sport, Cardoso posted on X, “I want to prolong my sincerest apologies for my actions throughout in the present day’s recreation. My conduct was not consultant of who I’m as an individual or the South Carolina program, and I deeply remorse any discomfort or inconvenience it might have precipitated. I take full accountability for my actions and guarantee you that I’m dedicated to conducting myself with the utmost respect and sportsmanship sooner or later.”
Did anything of concern stand out about South Carolina on the SEC event?
Voepel: Let’s not overreact; the Gamecocks have dominated the league event for a lot of the final decade, and they’re going dwelling with the trophy once more. However there have been points of each recreation in Greenville — be it turnovers, defensive lapses or rebounding — that Staley was not pleased with.
Nonetheless, take a look at what occurred within the 4 Energy 5 tournaments which have been accomplished: South Carolina was the one No. 1 seed/regular-season champion to win.
Within the Large Ten, top-seeded Ohio State fell within the quarterfinals to Maryland, and No. 2 seed Iowa gained the title — though the Hawkeyes needed to rally to beat Nebraska in time beyond regulation.
Within the ACC, No. 1 seed Virginia Tech was with out injured star heart Elizabeth Kitley and misplaced within the semifinals to eventual champion Notre Dame, the No. 4 seed.
And within the Pac-12, No. 2 seed USC beat No. 1 seed Stanford for the title. The Large 12’s prime seed, Oklahoma, is into the semifinals Monday, together with No. 2 seed Texas.
So whereas the Gamecocks could have been rattled a bit this weekend, they nonetheless gained one other championship.
Creme: To Michael’s level about not overreacting, that is nonetheless the deepest championship-caliber crew within the nation. Now the Gamecocks get to step outdoors the SEC within the NCAA event, the place the opposition is not almost as acquainted.
With so many groups — LSU close to the highest of the listing, but additionally together with the Hokies, Notre Dame, UConn and Indiana — taking part in with skinny rosters due to accidents, the Gamecocks nonetheless carry a giant benefit with the completely different lineups Staley has out there. That depth performed a major function in Sunday’s championship recreation and, little question, could have a serious affect on South Carolina’s NCAA event run.