Kamilla Cardoso apologizes for her role in the on-field incident during the LSU-South Carolina game

South Carolina women’s basketball player Kamilla Cardoso apologized Sunday night for her role in an on-court skirmish with an LSU player in the SEC championship game.

Cardoso was ejected from the game with about two minutes left in the fourth quarter of USC’s 79-72 win over LSU at Bon Secours Wellness Arena after pushing LSU guard Flau’jae Johnson to the ground at midfield.

Cardoso came to the defense of other USC teammates. Before pushing Johnson, Johnson had intentionally fouled South Carolina defender MiLaysia Fulwiley, which led to Johnson and South Carolina forward Ashlyn Watkins exchanging words.

In a statement posted at 6:48 p.m. on My conduct was not representative of me as a person or of 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 will continue to commit to conducting myself with the utmost respect and sportsmanship.”

According to the ESPN broadcast, Cardoso’s exclusion will keep her from USC’s first NCAA Tournament game. South Carolina remains considered the No. 1 overall seed in this year’s league and will almost certainly play the No. 16 seed in a first-round home game at Colonial Life Arena in two weeks.