A scuffle in the Women’s SEC championship game resulted in the ejections of six players between the South Carolina and LSU basketball teams.
The game was chippy and physical the entire way through, leading to the fourth quarter moment where heated trash talk between South Carolina players and LSU’s Flau’jae Johnson escalated.
Johnson bumped South Carolina’s Ashlyn Watkins after she yelled at the former following a turnover. As an argument ensued, SC center Kamilla Cardoso charged toward the group of players, forcefully pushing Johnson over.
From there, everything broke down, leading to players leaving the bench and even Johnson’s brother hurdling a fan barricade and the scorer’s table to get to the field.
You can see the chaotic scene below.
Tempers flare in the SEC Championship between South Carolina and LSU
— Barstool Sports (@barstoolsports) March 10, 2024
pic.twitter.com/twwQlq8XyU
After the game, South Carolina coach Dawn Staley spoke to the moment’s intensity. “For us playing a part in that, that’s not who we are,” Staley said. “That’s not what we’re about.”
LSU coach Kim Mulkey delivered a different message: “It’s ugly, it’s not good, no one wants to be a part of that. But I’ll tell you this, I wish [Cardoso] would’ve pushed Angel Reese. If you’re 6-8, don’t push somebody that little. That was uncalled for in my opinion. Let those two girls who were jawing, let them go at it.”
Cardoso would apologize on X after the game.
I would like to extend my sincerest apologies for my actions during today’s game. 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…
— Kamilla_Cardoso (@Kamillascsilva) March 10, 2024
South Carolina would win the game, continuing their undefeated season with an SEC championship.
