Six ejected after LSU-South Carolina women’s basketball fight
March 11 (UPI) —Â Six players were ejected after an on-court fight late in South Carolina’s win over LSU in the Southeastern Conference women’s basketball title game in Greenville, S.C.
The incident occurred with 2:08 remaining in the Gamecocks’ 79-72 triumph Sunday at Bons Secours Wellness Arena.
Gamecocks star Kamila Cardoso, who shoved Tigers guard Flau’jae Johnson to the ground during the scuffle, is expected to receive a one-game suspension and miss the start of the NCAA tournament.
“What you saw were two highly competitive teams try to win a conference championship,” Gamecocks coach Dawn Staley told reporters.
“They did not handle it well. Our players didn’t. Their players didn’t and it escalated. I want to thank the officials and everybody that jumped in and calmed the situation down.”
The Gamecocks led 73-66 when guard MiLaysia Fulwiley stole the ball from Johnson to spark the sequence. Johnson then pulled on Fulwiley’s hip, spinning her around at half court with the foul.
Gamecocks forward Ashlyn Watkins then ran in to exchange words with Johnson, who pushed her away.
Cardoso then ran toward Johnson and shoved her to the ground. Players and coaches from both teams then congregated before they were separated and the game continued.
Cardoso was ejected. Chloe Kitts for fighting. Tessa Johnson and Sakima Walker also were ejected for leaving the Gamecocks bench area. Janae Kent and Aalyah Del Rosario were ejected for leaving the Tigers bench.
Cardoso, a second-team All-SEC selection last season, apologized on X on Sunday night.
“I would like to extend my sincerest apologies for my actions during [Sunday’s] game,” the 6-foot-7 center wrote. “My behavior was not representative of who I am as a person or the South Carolina program, and I deeply regret any discomfort or inconvenience it may have caused.
“I take full responsibility for my actions and assure you that I am committed to conducting myself with the utmost respect and sportsmanship in the future.”
Staley said Johnson also apologized to her after the game. Fulwiley scored a game-high 24 points off the Gamecocks bench. Guard Te-Hina Paopao chipped in 12 points for the Gamecocks.
