Breaking news:The South Carolina women’s basketball team hasn’t had much downtime since clinching the national championship, and the offseason has already brought major news.
veteran guard Raven Johnson is returning for another year in Columbia. Johnson, a key leader on and off the court, had been non-committal about her plans immediately following the season. Speculation swirled as fans and teammates waited for her decision, which finally came in early April with the announcement that she would stay for one final season.
“She had no choice. We weren’t going to let her leave,” teammate Adhel Tac joked during the Gamecock Gala, an event honoring the team’s achievements. The sentiment reflects just how important Johnson is to the team’s identity and success. A seasoned floor general with exceptional court vision and defensive tenacity, Johnson’s return ensures the Gamecocks maintain veteran leadership amid incoming talent and roster changes.
Freshman phenom Joyce Edwards wasn’t surprised by the decision. “I feel like I always knew, so I wasn’t really preparing my emotions for her to leave,” Edwards said. Her confidence echoed the trust and belief Johnson has built among her teammates.
As the Gamecocks look ahead to defending their title, Johnson’s return brings stability, experience, and a fierce competitive edge. With a blend of returning stars and new faces like Edwards, South Carolina is poised to remain a dominant force in women’s college basketball. The road to another championship begins now—and Raven Johnson will be leading the
way.
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