South Carolina Women’s Basketball Remains Unbeaten After Miracle Buzzer Beater
In a stunning turn of events, the South Carolina women’s basketball team managed to keep their unbeaten streak alive with a miraculous buzzer-beater against Tennessee. With just 1.1 seconds remaining and a one-point deficit, it seemed like South Carolina’s two-year winning streak in non-NCAA tournament games was about to come to an end. However, star center Kamilla Cardoso, who had never made a triple in her Gamecock career, stepped up to the challenge.
Cardoso’s heave from beyond the three-point line clattered off the backboard and through the net, sending the crowd into a frenzy. The unlikely hero was mobbed by her teammates in celebration as South Carolina secured a 74-73 victory. This win improved their record to an impressive 31-0 and earned them a spot in the SEC tournament championship game.
The game started off strongly for South Carolina, with their top-ranked defense holding Tennessee scoreless for the first seven minutes. The Gamecocks surged to a 13-0 lead and showcased their balanced scoring attack, with eight different players contributing points in the first half. It appeared that the anticipated SEC quarterfinal matchup would be a blowout as South Carolina extended their lead to 35-12 early in the second quarter.
However, Tennessee’s defense managed to unlock South Carolina’s stingy squad, fueling an 11-1 run that brought the underdogs within 13 points at halftime. The second half saw a valiant comeback effort from Tennessee, led by Rickea Jackson and Jewel Spear. The duo combined for 32 points in the second half, narrowing the deficit and putting pressure on South Carolina.
Despite Tennessee’s efforts, Cardoso played a pivotal role in thwarting their comeback. She scored crucial points and made key plays throughout the second half, ensuring that South Carolina stayed ahead. Even when the Vols narrowed the deficit to two possessions, Cardoso responded with another conversion at the rim, finishing the game with a team-high 13 points alongside MiLaysia Fulwiley.
As the game entered its final minutes, both teams traded blows, with neither willing to give an inch. The score remained deadlocked at 71, and tensions ran high. Rickea Jackson’s offensive rebound put Tennessee in the lead for the first time in the game with just 24 seconds remaining. However, Jasmine Powell missed both free throws that could have sealed the victory for Tennessee.
With 3.1 seconds left on the clock, South Carolina had one last chance to salvage the game. After Tennessee committed a foul to give, Cardoso received the inbounds pass from center court. With no other options, she launched a desperate shot from beyond the three-point line. To everyone’s amazement, the ball banked off the backboard and went through the net, securing South Carolina’s victory and extending their unbeaten streak.
The Gamecocks now await the winner of LSU and Ole Miss for the SEC tournament championship. Their remarkable performance in this game has solidified their status as the last remaining undefeated team in DI college basketball. South Carolina’s resilience and Cardoso’s heroics have captivated fans and left everyone eagerly anticipating their next game.
In conclusion, South Carolina’s women’s basketball team pulled off an incredible comeback victory against Tennessee, thanks to Kamilla Cardoso’s miracle buzzer-beater. The Gamecocks’ unbeaten streak remains intact, and they have earned a spot in the SEC tournament championship game. This thrilling game showcased the team’s resilience and Cardoso’s ability to rise to the occasion. Fans can’t wait to see what South Carolina will accomplish next as they continue their quest for greatness.