On Wednesday, WNBA star Kelsey Plum unveiled the latest group of invitees to her prestigious annual “Dawg Class,” and among this year’s selections is South Carolina guard Tessa Johnson.
In partnership with Under Armour, Plum selected 12 standout guards to participate in the program. The group includes both graduates and underclassmen, all of whom possess legitimate potential to play at the professional level.
Plum and her team are committed to guiding these rising stars through the transition from college to the WNBA. The Dawg Class focuses on both on-court and off-court development, featuring drills with elite coaches, trainers, and pro players, as well as support for physical and mental health, and professional development.
The Los Angeles Sparks standout is using her growing influence to uplift the next generation of women’s basketball talent. Reflecting on her own experience, Plum explained why she continues to give back each offseason:
“I didn’t get the support I needed during my journey to the pros,” she said. “That’s why I’ve made it my mission to help others now.”
Tessa Johnson joins an exclusive group that has previously included fellow Gamecocks stars MiLaysia Fulwiley and Raven Johnson. Fulwiley participated in 2024, while Raven Johnson earned spots in both 2023 and 2024.
During the 2024-25 season, Johnson contributed significantly to South Carolina’s success, averaging 8.4 points, 2.2 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 0.7 steals, and 0.4 blocks per game. She also posted impressive shooting numbers — 47.4% from the field, 43% from three, and 82.5% from the free-throw line.
Looking ahead to the 2025-26 season, Johnson will return as a junior and be part of a formidable backcourt. She’ll join forces with Raven Johnson, MiLaysia Fulwiley, Maddy McDaniel, Ta’Niya Latson (a top transfer portal pickup), and incoming freshmen wings Agot Makeer and Ayla McDowell — forming what could be one of the most dynamic perimeter units in the nation.
