Raven Johnson’s college career ended after her South Carolina Gamecocks suffered a blowout 79-51 loss against the UCLA Bruins in the national championship game.
Johnson had a poor night in Phoenix, Arizona, as she could only score three points in 30 minutes, shooting 1-7 from the field, including 0-4 from the 3-point line. She also had three rebounds, one steal and one block.
After the disappointing loss, Johnson released a farewell statement where she addressed his friends, family and fans. She showed gratitude for the love and support she received during her college career.
Thank you for riding with me through every high and every challenge of my college career,” Johnson wrote. “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 me forever. Every moment, every game, every setback helped shape me into who I am today.”
Johnson also reflected that her basketball story is far from over. She added:
“This chapter may be closing, but the story isn’t over. Thank you for being a part of it and for pushing me to keep going.”
South Carolina HC Perfectly Describes Raven Johnson’s South Carolina Career
Despite the loss on Sunday, Raven Johnson can leave college basketball with her chin held up. She has won five SEC regular-season titles, appeared in five Final Fours, three SEC Tournament championships and two national championships.
That is why head coach Dawn Staley said the national championship game loss on Sunday will in no way overshadow Johnson’s accomplishments with the Gamecocks.
“We’re never going to let one game define anyone,” Staley said. “Raven has put our program on the top. She made a promise of not only winning just one national championship but put us in position to win a lot more. We came up short but when you look at Raven, she won at a really high clip.”
Johnson suffered an ACL tear just two games into her freshman season, but returned strongly from the injury. The point guard has since won 109 games and lost only eight. Her record in the NCAA Tournament is 20-3 and is the only player to win four national title games. She is projected to be picked in the first round of the 2026 WNBA draft.
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