Raven Johnson of the South Carolina Gamecocks couldn’t shake the memory of their loss to Iowa in the Final Four last spring, with Hawkeyes star Caitlin Clark dismissing her on the court. After countless viewings of the game, Johnson couldn’t move on until teammate Laeticia Amihere helped her find strength and perspective. A year later, Johnson sees the loss as a learning experience that fueled her growth as a player.
Reflecting on the defeat, Johnson realized she needed to improve her game, particularly her 3-point shooting. During the current NCAA Tournament, Johnson has been a standout, hitting crucial shots and making a significant impact on the court. Caitlin Clark acknowledged Johnson’s growth and improvement, praising her dedication to getting better and becoming a great player.
Facing the Iowa Hawkeyes again in the NCAA championship game, Johnson is eager for redemption. Despite briefly considering quitting after the loss last year, Johnson believes the experience has made her mentally stronger. South Carolina coach Dawn Staley has always had faith in Johnson’s ability to turn challenges into opportunities for growth on and off the court, and Johnson’s transformation as a player is a testament to that.
As Johnson prepares for the championship game, she is grateful for the support and encouragement she has received from her teammates and coaches. The lessons learned from the defeat have propelled her forward, with Johnson feeling confident and prepared to face whatever challenges come her way. With a 37-game win streak behind her, Johnson is ready to showcase her improved skills and seize the opportunity for redemption against Iowa.
