South Carolina's Cardoso Hits Buzzer-Beater To Secure Win

South Carolina center Kamilla Cardoso, right, celebrates after scoring the game winning basket with guard Te-Hina Paopao against Tennessee during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game at

South Carolina coach Dawn Staley made a critical decision during the Southeastern Conference Tournament semifinals that led to a thrilling victory for the No. 1 ranked Gamecocks. With the game on the line and her star player Te-Hina Paopao being defended tightly by Tennessee, Staley called on Kamilla Cardoso to take the shot. Cardoso, who had never attempted a 3-pointer in her career, heeded her coach's directive and banked in a desperation shot at the buzzer to secure a 74-73 win.

The Gamecocks, who held a 23-point lead at one point, found themselves trailing 73-71 with just 1.1 seconds remaining. Staley's strategic move to involve Cardoso in the final play paid off as the forward delivered when it mattered most. The victory was especially sweet for Cardoso, who had her family from Brazil in attendance for the first time since she left home at age 15.

South Carolina's triumph propels them to their ninth tournament final in the last 10 seasons, where they will face No. 8 LSU. Despite a valiant comeback effort by Tennessee's Rickea Jackson, who scored 22 points, the Lady Vols fell just short of upsetting the top-ranked Gamecocks.

The game started with South Carolina dominating, jumping out to a 13-0 lead while Tennessee struggled to find its rhythm. However, the Lady Vols fought back and narrowed the gap to 36-23 by halftime after a strong second-quarter performance.

Cardoso's first career 3-pointer secures 74-73 win.

Staley calls on Cardoso for game-winning shot.

Gamecocks advance to ninth tournament final in 10 seasons.

Cardoso's family from Brazil witnesses her clutch performance.

South Carolina to face No. 8 LSU in the final.

Aliyah Boston's mother's support boosts team's resilience.

Game starts with South Carolina dominating, then Tennessee fights back.

South Carolina aims for eighth SEC Tournament title since 2015.

Game highlights determination and composure of both teams.

Cardoso's clutch 3-pointer seals memorable victory for Gamecocks.

Staley credited the positive influence of Aliyah Boston's mother, Cleone, for instilling faith and resilience in the team during challenging moments. This support has been instrumental in guiding the Gamecocks through tough situations throughout the season.

South Carolina will now aim for their eighth SEC Tournament title since 2015 in the upcoming final. The team's remarkable resilience and ability to overcome adversity have positioned them as strong contenders for the championship.

Overall, the game showcased the determination and composure of both teams, with South Carolina emerging victorious in a thrilling finish that will be remembered for Cardoso's clutch 3-pointer.