South Carolina Gamecocks Women’s Basketball Eyes Bright Future Despite Losing Star Player

Matt Peavy | Jun 28, 2024

Apr 7, 2024; Cleveland, OH, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks head coach Dawn Staley reacts during the trophy presentation after defeating the Iowa Hawkeyes in the finals of the Final Four of the womens 2024 NCAA Tournament at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports / Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

The South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball team is gearing up for another promising season, even as they bid farewell to standout player Kamilla Cardoso. The Gamecocks, led by head coach Dawn Staley, went a perfect 38-0 en route to a national championship. Cardoso, who was pivotal in the team’s recent successes, has declared for the WNBA Draft, where she was selected third overall by the Chicago Sky.

Cardoso was a force on the court this past season, leading the SEC in field goal percentage and blocked shots. She averaged 9.8 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game, making her an indispensable part of the Gamecocks’ lineup. Her performance earned her many accolades, including being named the Most Outstanding Player in her region during the NCAA Tournament.

Returning Players

Despite Cardoso’s departure, the Gamecocks have a strong group of returners ready to step up. Key players include:

• Raven Johnson: A dynamic guard known for her playmaking abilities and defensive prowess.

●      Ashlyn Watkins: Often the first off the bench, Watkins has shown she can be a reliable starter.

●      Chloe Kitts: With another year of experience, Kitts is expected to be a major offensive and defensive contributor.

New Commitments

Looking ahead, the Gamecocks have secured commitments from several top recruits, ensuring the team remains competitive. These commitments include:

●      Joyce Edwards: A highly touted forward from Camden High, known for her scoring and rebounding.

●      Madisen McDaniel: A top-rated point guard known for her scoring, playmaking, and defensive skills, bringing a strong all-around game to the Gamecocks.

Looking Forward

With a blend of seasoned players and fresh talent, the Gamecocks are poised to continue dominating women’s college basketball. Head coach Dawn Staley, known for her exceptional recruiting and player development, will undoubtedly have her squad ready for another deep run in the NCAA Tournament.

The upcoming season promises excitement as returning players take on larger roles and new faces bring fresh energy to the team. While the absence of Kamilla Cardoso will be felt, the Gamecocks’ depth and talent ensure they remain a seemingly unstoppable force in the SEC and beyond.

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