By declaring her return for the 2025 season, promising to complete unfinished business, leading the Gamecocks back to a national championship contender, and solidifying her legacy as one of the greatest guards in program history, South Carolina guard Raven Johnson astounds the college basketball world.

In a dramatic and inspiring move that has set the college basketball world ablaze, South Carolina guard Raven Johnson announced she will return for the 2025 season. With four powerful words—“I’m not done yet”—Johnson not only signaled her return but reignited championship hopes for the South Carolina Gamecocks. Her decision, framed as a personal mission to finish what she started, is more than a statement of unfinished business—it’s a declaration of dominance.

Already a decorated and respected leader within the program, Johnson’s return ensures that Dawn Staley’s powerhouse retains one of the most influential backcourt forces in the nation. With a renewed hunger, the former five-star prospect from Atlanta has chosen legacy over immediacy, opting to strengthen her imprint on South Carolina’s storied program rather than leap to the WNBA.

From the moment Raven Johnson set foot in Columbia, expectations were sky-high. A McDonald’s All-American and the No. 2 point guard in her class, Johnson brought with her a tenacious mindset and a unique blend of speed, vision, and toughness. Even after an early setback due to a season-ending knee injury her freshman year, Johnson’s resilience never wavered. She redshirted, rehabbed, and returned stronger—both physically and mentally.

By her sophomore campaign, Johnson had blossomed into one of the nation’s most dynamic floor generals. Her ability to distribute, defend, and control the tempo of a game made her an indispensable figure in Staley’s rotation. As a junior, she elevated her game once more, averaging 9.7 points, 6.3 assists, and 2.0 steals per game while playing lockdown defense on the opposition’s best perimeter player.

Yet, despite South Carolina’s deep run into the 2025 NCAA Tournament, the season ended in heartbreak. A stunning Final Four loss left the Gamecocks one step shy of a title that many believed was destined to be theirs. That defeat haunted Johnson—and ultimately became the catalyst for her return.

“I didn’t come this far to leave with regrets,” Johnson said in a heartfelt social media post. “This program, these fans, my sisters—we have more to accomplish. I want to finish the job.”

With Johnson returning, South Carolina doesn’t just reload—they reemerge as front-runners for the 2026 national championship. Her leadership, combined with a roster filled with elite talent and depth, positions the Gamecocks for another dominant campaign.

Coach Dawn Staley was quick to praise Johnson’s decision. “Raven is the heartbeat of our team. Her commitment to excellence, on and off the court, inspires everyone around her. She’s not just returning to play basketball—she’s returning to make history.”

With Johnson anchoring the backcourt, rising stars like Milaysia Fulwiley and Chloe Kitts are expected to continue their development under her mentorship. The synergy between Johnson’s steady hand and Fulwiley’s explosive creativity gives South Carolina arguably the most versatile guard duo in the nation.

Even more crucial is Johnson’s presence in the locker room. Teammates often refer to her as the “glue” that holds the team together. Her maturity, composure under pressure, and work ethic set the tone for the program’s culture.

What separates Johnson from other elite guards isn’t just her court vision or playmaking—it’s her defense. Her footwork, anticipation, and tenacity on the perimeter have consistently stifled top-tier opponents. Whether it’s picking pockets at the top of the key or contesting every shot with relentless energy, Johnson’s defense is a game-changer.

“She takes it personal,” said assistant coach Jolette Law. “She guards like her life depends on it. And she makes everyone else raise their level because of that.”

Johnson’s defensive prowess was on full display in the 2025 SEC Tournament, where she spearheaded a Gamecocks defense that held opponents to under 55 points per game. In the semifinal against LSU, she forced five turnovers and limited Hailey Van Lith to just 3-of-11 shooting.

“She doesn’t just play defense. She dictates it,” Staley remarked.

Johnson’s return also highlights the new era of college basketball, where Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities can influence player decisions. With her growing popularity, marketability, and social media following, Johnson has secured multiple NIL deals that allow her to profit while continuing her education and athletic career.

But those close to Johnson insist the money wasn’t the primary motivator. Instead, it was a desire to lead, to grow, and to win—values instilled by her mother and grandmother, both of whom remain cornerstones in her life.

“She’s grounded. Always has been,” said longtime mentor and trainer, Otis Smart. “She’s motivated by legacy, not luxury. That’s what makes her special.”

With another season ahead, Johnson has the opportunity to cement her place among the all-time greats in South Carolina women’s basketball history. She already ranks in the top ten in assists and is poised to climb even higher in steals and minutes played.

She’s chasing the legacy of legends like Tiffany Mitchell, Tyasha Harris, and of course, A’ja Wilson—not by mimicking their games, but by forging her own path through toughness, heart, and leadership.

“She’s different,” said Staley. “She might not always fill up the stat sheet like a scorer, but she controls every part of the game. That’s greatness.”

And while Wilson’s No. 22 may forever hang in the rafters, it’s becoming increasingly clear that Johnson’s No. 25 may one day join it.

Raven Johnson’s journey hasn’t been without adversity. That early ACL injury, public scrutiny following her matchup with Caitlin Clark in the 2023 Final Four, and the weight of expectations could have derailed a lesser player. But Johnson used each challenge as fuel.

She transformed herself into a better shooter, worked tirelessly to become more efficient in the mid-range, and spent countless hours studying film to enhance her decision-making.

“She’s grown in every facet,” said Staley. “She went from a talented freshman to a complete leader. Now, she’s the total package.”

Teammates echo that sentiment.

“Raven brings out the best in us,” said sophomore forward Ashlyn Watkins. “She’s that rare player who makes you believe you can do anything.”

Johnson’s return also adds spice to several key rivalries. South Carolina’s matchups with LSU, UConn, Tennessee, and now Iowa—if a rematch materializes—will take on added intensity.

In particular, fans and analysts are already speculating about a potential clash with Iowa and Clark’s heir apparent, Ava Jones. The storyline writes itself: Johnson’s redemption arc, revenge, and a shot at finishing what she started.

“The whole world saw that Iowa game,” Johnson admitted in an interview. “I’ve watched it more times than I can count. I won’t run from it—I’m using it.”

It’s that level of accountability that has made Johnson a fan favorite and a leader in the national women’s basketball landscape.

Off the court, Johnson is pursuing a degree in communications and is actively involved in community outreach programs in Columbia and Atlanta. She often speaks at youth camps, empowering young girls to dream big and work hard.

“She’s more than an athlete,” said Staley. “She’s a role model. That’s why people rally around her.”

Johnson also mentors several underclassmen, often staying late after practice to help them with drills, homework, or life advice.

“Raven’s helped me so much,” said freshman guard Tessa Johnson. “She makes you feel seen, valued, and supported.”

With a fourth season ahead, Raven Johnson has a rare chance to complete one of the most compelling arcs in college basketball. Should she lead South Carolina to another national championship, she would leave a legacy rivaled by few.

Yet, even if a title eludes her again, her imprint on the program is undeniable. She has helped carry forward the dynasty built by Dawn Staley—not just with talent, but with character.

When asked what she hopes people will remember most about her, Johnson didn’t mention awards, stats, or banners.

“I want them to remember I never quit,” she said. “That I gave everything to this team, this school, this game. That I loved it—and it showed.”

As the 2025-26 season approaches, one thing is clear: Raven Johnson’s return doesn’t just make South Carolina a title contender—it elevates the entire sport. She’s not just coming back for herself. She’s coming back for history.