“This game is crazy”: South Carolina’s Raven Johnson reacts to thrilling Liberty win at WNBA finals 

Game 5 of the WNBA Finals between New York Liberty and Minnesota Lynx concluded on Sunday and Raven Johnson was awestruck by it all. After a close competition, the New York Liberty won the game 67-62 in overtime.

The South Carolina guard shared on her Instagram story pictures from the finals and wrote:

"Game is crazy!!!"

Raven Johnson reacts to Game 5 of the WNBA final (Credits: Instagram/@hollywood_raven)

With Johnson playing her red-shirt junior season in 2024-25, she has the option of leaving for the WNBA next year.

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Raven Johnson is one of the most anticipated players for the 2024-25 season

During South Carolina's undefeated run to the NCAA Championship last year, Raven Johnson averaged 8.1 points, 5.2 rebounds, 4.8 assists and 2.1 steals. After playing just two games in her freshman season, she had to withdraw due to a season-ending knee injury.

Since her successful return, the guard is yet to tap into her full potential and many believe that this year will be the one where she fully blossoms into a talented self. Johnson has been one of the most consistent players who has steadily improved herself and coach Staley praised her during the SEC Media Day.

"She's very consistent in how she approaches practice," Staley said. "What you see is what you get. What you see her doing in games is what you see her do in practice. So she's very consistent with that, very, very competitive."

Raven Johnson, meanwhile, has credited coach Staley for her growth. During an interview with college football analyst Paul Finebaum, she said:

"Coach Staley, who wouldn't want to play for Dawn Staley? Just the stuff she does for everyone, it's not just basketball. She helps everyone; she wants everyone to succeed. She prepares us for real-life aspects and gets us ready for the real world. She's like a mother figure."

The South Carolina Gamecocks are the favorites to repeat their 2024 NCAA championship win. They are ranked No. 1 by AP on their women's basketball preseason poll. Despite competition from USC and UConn, the Gamecocks could emerge victorious thanks to their roster.

Most players have had championship-winning experience and that will give the team the upper hand further into the season. At the same time, they have lost an important piece, Kamilla Cardoso, to the WNBA, and it is yet to be seen how this will impact the team.

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