Raven Johnson Announces Return to South Carolina, Cites “Unfinished Business” and $250K+ NIL Deal

Raven Johnson Announces Return to South Carolina, Cites “Unfinished Business” and $250K+ NIL Deal

In a move that has electrified the South Carolina fanbase and reaffirmed the program’s elite standing in women’s college basketball, standout point guard Raven Johnson officially announced she will return to Columbia for one final season. Her decision comes just days after fellow backcourt star Te-Hina Paopao declared she was also running it back, with both players citing a shared mission: “unfinished business.”

Johnson, a key leader and defensive anchor for the Gamecocks, made her intentions clear in an emotional statement that spoke volumes about the culture head coach Dawn Staley has cultivated in Columbia.

“Just like Te-Hina said — it’s the culture here,” Johnson said. “You feel it every day you step into that gym. Coach Staley, the fans, the support — it’s different. And we’re not done yet.”

Her decision wasn’t just about loyalty and legacy — it also comes with major financial upside. According to sources close to the program, Johnson has secured a Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal valued at over $250,000. The package is said to include high-profile apparel partnerships, local business endorsements, and national branding opportunities — officially positioning her as one of the top earners in women’s college basketball.

While the financial incentives are significant, Johnson made it clear that her motivation stems from more than money. It’s about the mission — the dream that was nearly realized just months ago.

Last season, South Carolina came agonizingly close to securing another national title, falling to UConn in the 2025 NCAA Championship game. For Johnson, the loss has fueled a hunger that still burns. Her return represents not just another shot at glory, but a chance to cement her legacy alongside the greats who’ve worn the Garnet and Black.

“We came so close last year,” she said. “Now, with Te-Hina back and this new class coming in — we’ve got a real shot to finish the job.”

The tandem of Johnson and Paopao forms one of the most formidable backcourts in the country. Both guards bring a mix of poise, experience, and playmaking ability that has helped define South Carolina’s identity in recent years. Their return provides critical continuity for a team already buzzing with elite recruits and national title ambitions.

Head coach  Dawn Staley didn’t hold back when asked about what Johnson’s return means to the program:

“Raven is our floor general — the emotional core of our team,” Staley said. “Having her back means we’re not just competing, we’re contending. She brings a presence that elevates everyone around her.”

Johnson’s comeback is a strategic win for South Carolina in a rapidly evolving college basketball landscape, where player movement and NIL dynamics have reshaped the game. Her loyalty — and success in navigating both performance and personal brand growth — offers a blueprint for future stars.

The response online has been swift and celebratory. Gamecock Nation lit up social media with reactions ranging from stunned excitement to confident predictions of another deep March run.

One fan tweeted: “Te-Hina and Raven both running it back? Dawn’s cooking something legendary. #UnfinishedBusiness #BuiltByStaley #Gamecocks”

With a talented incoming class, seasoned veterans, and the fire of last year’s loss still fresh, South Carolina is shaping up to be a powerhouse once again. And with Raven Johnson at the helm, the message is clear: the Gamecocks are back — and they’re not settling for second place.