Former South Carolina Gamecocks Star Kamilla Cardoso Reveals Rough Start to Move Abroad: Set to Play for Shanghai in WCBA
Kamilla Cardoso, former South Carolina Gamecocks standout, has opened up about the challenges she’s faced in her transition to international basketball as she prepares to play for the Shanghai team in the upcoming Women’s Chinese Basketball Association (WCBA) season. Cardoso, who became a dominant force in NCAA women’s basketball, shared that her move abroad hasn’t been as smooth as she anticipated, highlighting the difficulties of adjusting to a new culture and environment.
Cardoso’s Dominance at South Carolina
At 6’7″, Cardoso was a towering presence for the South Carolina Gamecocks during her collegiate career, helping lead the team to deep NCAA tournament runs. Known for her elite shot-blocking ability and rebounding prowess, she earned recognition as one of the top centers in the country, averaging 11.6 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game in her final season. Her defensive impact and physicality made her a fan favorite and key piece in South Carolina’s success.
A Rough Start Abroad
Cardoso’s move to China marks her first experience playing professional basketball outside of the United States, and she admits that the transition has been challenging. In a recent interview, Cardoso revealed the hurdles she’s faced since relocating to Shanghai.
“It hasn’t been easy,” Cardoso said candidly. “Adjusting to a new culture, a different language, and a different style of basketball has been tough. There are days when I feel overwhelmed, but I know it’s part of the journey.”
Among the challenges she mentioned were communication barriers, adapting to local customs, and even something as simple as finding familiar foods. Despite the difficulties, Cardoso remains optimistic about the experience and is committed to growing both on and off the court.
Playing in the WCBA
Cardoso’s move to the WCBA is a significant step in her career, as the league is known for attracting top international talent. The WCBA is one of the premier women’s basketball leagues in the world, and players like Breanna Stewart and Brittney Griner have had success in China before returning to the WNBA. Cardoso will now join the ranks of international stars seeking to make their mark in a competitive environment.
“I’m excited to be here and ready to compete,” Cardoso said. “I know this experience will make me a better player. It’s just going to take some time to adjust, but I’m embracing the challenge.”
Cardoso will suit up for Shanghai, one of the top teams in the WCBA, and she is expected to play a pivotal role as their starting center. Her size and skill set should translate well in the league, where her shot-blocking and rebounding abilities will be key to Shanghai’s success this season.
Looking Ahead
Despite the rocky start, Kamilla Cardoso remains focused on the future and is determined to prove herself on the international stage. As one of the most promising young players in women’s basketball, her performance in the WCBA will be closely monitored by scouts, fans, and the media.
“I know there will be ups and downs, but I’m here to grow and learn,” Cardoso said. “Playing abroad is an opportunity to expand my game and experience basketball in a whole new way. I’m ready for whatever comes next.”
The upcoming WCBA season will be a pivotal moment in Cardoso’s career, as she continues to navigate life in a new country while showcasing the skills that made her one of the most dominant players in the NCAA. Fans in China and abroad are eager to see how the former South Carolina star adapts to her new surroundings and leads Shanghai in the season ahead.
