The 2024 NCAA Women’s basketball tournament just gave the fans a first glimpse into what March Madness will be like. Unprecedented and intense doesn’t seem enough to explain the thrill. As NBA giant Magic Johnson phrases it, the tournament has delivered some “surreal moments.” No. 1 seeded team South Carolina stepped into the SEC tournament with a 29-0 overall record. Yet, with a few seconds on the clock, the Gamecocks found themselves down by 2. That’s when Kamilla Cardoso decided to hit the first 3-pointer of her career. 

The senior center just delivered a buzzer-beater to come away with a 74-73 win over Tennessee. This is the first-ever 3-pointer made in-game by the 6’7” prodigy. Impressed by her confidence, Los Angeles Lakers legend Magic Johnson took to his X account to congratulate the Brazilian hooper. Expressing his thrill, he wrote, “Unbelievable finish with #1 South Carolina against Tennessee in the SEC Women’s Basketball Tournament! Kamilla Cardoso hit the game-winning three to seal the victory after being down 2 points with one second left in the game. What a surreal moment to hit your first three of your career. Another great game for women’s basketball in the books, making me even more excited for March Madness!!”

Kamilla Cardoso is rightfully gaining the spotlight she deserves. The crowd waiting patiently at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville erupted in cheer when Cardoso made the first 3-pointer of her career under the guidance of coach Dawn Staley.

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The power battle between South Carolina and Tennessee

The power shown by the Gamecocks was simply commendable with three players scoring in double figures. While Raven Johnson had 11, both MiLaysia Fulwiley and Cardoso contributed 13 points. The Gamecocks dominated throughout the first quarter, however, it was during the second quarter that the team’s strength faltered.

As promised during the Gamecock’s quarterfinal game, Fulwiley also delivered her best throughout this matchup and was the first to notch up the double-digit score. The game was tied at 71-71 followed by Tennessee taking the lead for the first time in the game with 73-71. However, the result changed thanks to the star player, as we all know.

The South Carolina Gamecocks are just one step away from claiming their eighth league tournament title under their coach and is headed to a matchup against LSU. How do you think the team will fare against LSU? What are your thoughts on this story? Let us know in the comments section below.

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