South Carolina Guard Raven Johnson Stuns College Basketball World by Announcing Her Return for the 2025 Season, Vowing to Finish Unfinished Business, Lead the Gamecocks Back to National Championship Contention, and Cement Her Legacy Among the Greatest Guards in Program History
In a stunning turn of events that sent shockwaves throughout the world of women’s college basketball, South Carolina guard Raven Johnson announced on Monday her decision to return for the 2025 season. The former five-star recruit and national champion had long been considered a strong candidate to declare for the WNBA Draft this year, but in a heartfelt statement shared via social media, Johnson revealed that she’s not done in Columbia.
“There’s unfinished business,” Johnson wrote. “I came to South Carolina to win championships and make history. We’ve had some amazing moments, but I’m not satisfied. I’m coming back to finish what we started, lead my sisters, and leave no doubt about the legacy I want to leave here.”
With those words, Johnson reaffirmed her commitment not only to the South Carolina Gamecocks, but also to the program’s championship culture and her personal quest for greatness.
A Gamecock Star with Championship DNA
Raven Johnson’s impact on the South Carolina program has been undeniable since she arrived in 2021 as part of a star-studded recruiting class. Though her freshman season was derailed by injury, she returned with a vengeance and quickly evolved into the Gamecocks’ floor general. Known for her elite court vision, lockdown defense, and relentless drive, Johnson was instrumental in helping South Carolina capture the 2023 national title and reach the Final Four again in 2024.
In the 2024–25 season, she elevated her game even further. Averaging 12.4 points, 6.1 assists, and 2.3 steals per game, Johnson was named First-Team All-SEC and earned national acclaim for her leadership and tenacity. Yet despite her efforts, South Carolina fell short in the NCAA Tournament, exiting in the Elite Eight in a heartbreaking overtime loss to UCLA.
It was that loss — and the feeling of a dream left unfulfilled — that Johnson says weighed heavily in her decision to return.
“We were right there,” she said during a press conference at Colonial Life Arena. “One or two plays away. That feeling of walking off the court knowing we could’ve done more — it hasn’t left me. I want another shot at that trophy. I owe it to myself, to Coach Staley, and to every teammate who’s believed in me.”
Dawn Staley Reacts: “She’s Our Leader”
South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley, who has built a dynasty in Columbia over the past decade, beamed with pride during Johnson’s announcement.
“She’s our heartbeat,” Staley said. “Raven could’ve gone pro — she has the talent, the résumé, and the respect of everyone in the game. But choosing to come back shows the kind of competitor she is. She wants more. She wants to lead. And that’s what makes her special.”
Staley emphasized that Johnson’s return is about more than just basketball.
“She’s grown so much as a person and a leader,” Staley continued. “She’s the kind of player you build a program around. The younger players look up to her. The fans love her. And she’s earned every bit of the legacy she’s building.”
Cementing Her Legacy
With her return for a fifth season, Johnson now has a unique opportunity to etch her name alongside South Carolina legends like A’ja Wilson, Tyasha Harris, and Aliyah Boston. Already one of the most decorated point guards in program history, she enters the 2025 season within striking distance of several school records — including assists, steals, and games started.
But for Johnson, legacy isn’t just about stats.
“I want to be remembered as someone who gave it everything,” she said. “Every practice, every game, every rep — I want people to know I left it all out there. I want to inspire little girls who look like me, who dream of playing on this level. If my story can give them hope, then that’s part of my legacy too.”
Her decision has drawn praise from across the college basketball world. ESPN analyst Rebecca Lobo called it “a massive moment for the sport,” while WNBA legend Sue Bird tweeted, “Raven Johnson coming back? College hoops just got a lot more exciting.”
2025 Title Run Begins Now
With Johnson back in the fold, South Carolina immediately re-enters the national title conversation for 2025. She’ll lead a talented returning core that includes sophomore standout MiLaysia Fulwiley, sharpshooter Chloe Kitts, and 6-foot-7 center Kamilla Cardoso, who also hinted at a possible return for one more season.
The Gamecocks’ 2025 recruiting class, ranked among the top five nationally, is loaded with athleticism and length, and Johnson’s leadership will be critical in helping them adjust to the college level.
“We’ve got the pieces,” Johnson said. “Now it’s about coming together and doing the work. I’ve never been more motivated in my life.”
With UConn, Iowa, and LSU expected to be top contenders, the road back to the Final Four won’t be easy — but few players in the country are better equipped to handle that pressure than Johnson.
A Movement Bigger Than Basketball
Johnson’s decision to return also reflects a broader movement among elite women’s college players choosing to stay in school amid increasing NIL opportunities and growing visibility for the sport. With women’s college basketball reaching record-breaking viewership numbers and NIL deals allowing stars to earn significant income, returning for another season now presents both financial and competitive benefits.
“I’m grateful for the support I’ve received,” Johnson said. “From our fans, my family, and from partners who believe in me — this journey is about more than just basketball. It’s about empowerment.”
Indeed, Johnson’s return is a testament to the evolving landscape of women’s sports, where players now have greater agency to shape their careers and build their brands while still competing at the highest collegiate level.
The Final Chapter
As she embarks on what she calls her “last dance” in Garnet and Black, Raven Johnson knows the expectations will be sky-high — and she’s embracing it.
“I came here to make history,” she said. “Now I’ve got one more year to do it. Let’s go get that ring.”
With her fire, leadership, and elite skill set, Raven Johnson’s return may just be the spark South Carolina needs to reclaim its throne — an
d give the college basketball world one unforgettable season.