Kamilla Cardoso, the standout 6-foot-7 senior from Brazil, has announced that she will be turning professional following the conclusion of South Carolina's season at the Final Four. Cardoso, the leading scorer and rebounder for the Gamecocks, has decided not to return for another season and is expected to be a top-five pick in the upcoming WNBA draft.
In a social media post, Cardoso expressed her gratitude to her coaches, teammates, family, friends, and the dedicated South Carolina fan base known as the 'FAMS.' She officially declared her intention to enter the 2024 WNBA draft.
Cardoso has been a key player for the Gamecocks, averaging 14.1 points and 9.4 rebounds per game this season. She began her collegiate career at Syracuse, where she was named the ACC freshman of the year in 2020-21, before transferring to South Carolina.
After playing a supporting role to All-American Aliyah Boston in her first two seasons at South Carolina, Cardoso emerged as the team's focal point this year. Despite facing challenges such as missing games due to international commitments with the Brazilian national team and a suspension during the NCAA Tournament, Cardoso has been instrumental in South Carolina's success.
The Gamecocks, boasting a perfect 36-0 record, are set to face North Carolina State in the national semifinals on Friday night in Cleveland. South Carolina, under the guidance of coach Dawn Staley, has made four consecutive Final Four appearances, showcasing their dominance in women's college basketball.
Cardoso's decision to enter the WNBA draft marks the next chapter in her basketball journey, as she looks to continue her impressive career at the professional level. Her impact on the Gamecocks and the broader basketball community will be remembered as she transitions to the next phase of her career.
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