Is Raven Johnson playing tonight? Explore South Carolina star's availability vs Coppin State (Nov 14)
South Carolina guard Raven Johnson is expected to start today as No. 1 USC hosts Coppin State for its 2024-25 Colonial Life Arena debut on Thursday.
Before tipoff, Johnson and Co. will celebrate last season's undefeated run by unveiling its 2024 national championship banner.
The Gamecocks (2-0) have started the season strong. They defeated Michigan 68-62 before dominating NC State 71-57.
Johnson's defense was instrumental in the season opener against Michigan, where the Gamecocks shot a poor 33.3%.
While she struggled on offense, her defense proved vital.
Johnson failed to make two crucial free throws with 39 seconds remaining, allowing Michigan’s Syla Swords to cut the lead to one. However, Johnson’s block on Swords' subsequent 3-point attempt sealed the game, contributing to the Gamecocks' 68-62 win in the Hall of Fame series.
Johnson had a slightly better output in the next game against No. 9 NC State last Sunday. She put up four points, nine rebounds, two assists and two steals in the 71-57 victory over the Wolfpack.
With the team still undefeated, Johnson and her team extended their winning streak to 40 games. South Carolina is only the second program in NCAA history to achieve multiple 40-game win streaks.
Johnson appears to be in the best shape of her career. After missing the 2021-22 season with a left knee injury, her last reported setback was a hyperextended knee during their Final Four match against NC State.
Johnson recovered in time for the national championship game against Iowa, where her defensive masterclass was crucial to South Carolina's 87-75 win.
Raven Johnson seeks her third NCAA championship with South Carolina
Now playing in her fourth year with South Carolina, Raven Johnson looks to add another tournament win to her trophy cabinet.
Johnson is known for her strong defensive presence, court vision and playmaking. Her 3-point percentage and assist-to-turnover ratio have seen steady improvements through the years.
Last year, Raven Johnson averaged 8.1 points, 5.2 rebounds, 4.8 assists and 2.1 steals on 44.3% field goal shooting. She has seen an uptick in rebounding averages this year, grabbing 8.0 per contest.
After tonight's game, the Gamecocks will face East Carolina on Sunday before heading to the road against Clemson (Nov. 20) and UCLA (Nov. 24).