Raven Johnson Sends Farewell to South Carolina, and Angel Reese Responds

The No. 1 South Carolina Gamecocks fell to the No. 1 UCLA Bruins by a score of 79-51 in the women’s NCAA Tournament National Championship on Sunday afternoon.

Star senior guard Raven Johnson did not want her South Carolina career to end like this, but what a career it was.

“I’m not going to try to dwell on it too much,” Johnson said after the loss. “It’s going to replay in my mind a lot, but I’m on to the next chapter in my life.”

Johnson posted a lengthier goodbye to South Carolina on Sunday night, as read below:

“To my Fams/Fans,

Thank you for riding with me through every high and every challenge of my college career. It may not have ended the way I dreamed, but I’m beyond grateful for the journey, the lessons, and the growth that came with it.

You all showed me love, support, and belief even on the toughest days — and that’s something I’ll carry with my forever. Every moment, every game, every setback helped shape me into who I am today.

This chapter may be closing, but the story isn’t over. Thank you for being part of it and for pushing me to keep going.

With love and gratitude,

Raven”

Chicago Sky All-Star Angel Reese replied, “Proud of you my booskie. Your journey has been so inspiring, and you’re just getting started. See you in the W!”

Johnson leaves South Carolina as a two-time national champion (2022, 2024), two-time All-SEC selection, and two-time All-SEC All-Defensive Team selection. Johnson reached the Final Four in each of her five seasons at South Carolina and played in four national championship games.

The Gamecocks were 145-8 when Johnson was on the floor, according to the university.

Johnson, the SEC Defensive Player of the Year, is projected to be a first-round pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft on April 13.

Source link