Kamilla Cardoso, the star forward of the South Carolina Gamecocks, is known for her imposing presence on the basketball court. But behind the towering figure and fierce gameplay lies a young woman with a deeply emotional story about her family and the struggles of balancing her demanding career with personal connections.
In a recent heartfelt interview, Cardoso opened up about her relationship with her parents and the guilt she often feels for using “I’m busy” as an excuse to not stay as connected as she’d like. For the Brazilian-born athlete, who left her home country to chase her basketball dreams in the United States, the distance from her family has been both a source of motivation and heartache.
“My parents have sacrificed so much for me to be here,” Cardoso shared, her voice trembling. “They believed in me when I didn’t even believe in myself. But sometimes I feel like I don’t do enough to show them how much I appreciate it.”
Cardoso explained that the grueling schedule of a collegiate athlete often leaves little room for personal time. Between training sessions, games, and academics, the demands are relentless. Yet, she admits that using her busy schedule as a justification for not calling or texting her parents more often has weighed heavily on her.
“I tell myself I’ll call tomorrow, but then tomorrow comes, and I get caught up in everything,” she admitted. “Before I know it, weeks have passed. And I hate that.”
The 6’7” forward expressed how her parents’ unwavering support continues to fuel her drive to succeed. They often stay up late to watch her games despite the time difference, sending her messages of encouragement. Cardoso acknowledged that these gestures remind her of their unconditional love and make her realize the importance of staying connected, no matter how busy life gets.
Through tears, Cardoso vowed to make a change. “I want to be better for them,” she said. “It’s not just about basketball. Family is everything, and I don’t want to lose sight of that.”
Cardoso’s candid revelation is a powerful reminder that even the most successful individuals face struggles with maintaining personal relationships. Her story resonates with many who grapple with balancing their dreams with their responsibilities to loved ones, proving that vulnerability is a strength that can inspire others to prioritize what
truly matters.