South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley is never shy about advocating for her players, and her latest comments about star guard Raven Johnson have quickly become one of the biggest talking points in women’s basketball. In a recent interview shared via letstalkuscwbb/YT, Staley delivered an emphatic endorsement of Johnson’s WNBA potential — and she didn’t mince words.
Speaking with clear conviction, Staley declared, “If the WNBA teams wanna have the amount of success we had with her in the lineup, they will take Raven in the first round.” The statement has fueled excitement among Gamecock fans and stirred renewed attention from scouts and analysts across the league.
A Coach’s Confidence Built on Results
Staley’s support for Johnson comes from firsthand experience. Raven has been a key piece of South Carolina’s backcourt, known for her elite court vision, high-level decision-making, defensive tenacity, and growth as a leader. Her evolution from a young talent to a steady, trusted floor general has been one of the most compelling storylines of the Gamecocks’ recent success.
Staley emphasized not just Johnson’s skill set, but her impact on winning, a trait WNBA front offices value heavily.
“Raven is a first-round guard,” Staley stated confidently — a powerful endorsement from one of the most respected coaches in basketball.
Why Staley Believes Raven Is First-Round Material
Under Staley, point guards are expected to do far more than distribute the ball. They learn to command the floor, elevate teammates, and set the tone in pressure moments. Raven has embraced those responsibilities.
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Some of the qualities that bolster her first-round projection include:
- Elite defensive instincts
Raven is widely regarded as one of the best perimeter defenders in college basketball. - Improved offensive efficiency
Johnson has sharpened her scoring ability, becoming more reliable from midrange and beyond the arc. - Leadership and composure
Her poise in tight games has become a defining part of South Carolina’s identity. - Experience in a championship system
WNBA teams often look for players who excel within disciplined, winning cultures — something Staley’s players are known for.
A Message to the WNBA: Don’t Overlook Her
Staley’s comments carry weight. As a Hall of Fame guard herself and one of the most influential coaches in the sport, she understands exactly what WNBA teams seek. Her message was clear: Raven Johnson has everything it takes to succeed at the next level.
And she didn’t just recommend her — she challenged the league.
“If the WNBA teams wanna have the amount of success we had with her,” Staley emphasized, “they will take Raven in the first round.”
The Road Ahead
As Johnson continues to elevate her game during her final collegiate stretch, the buzz surrounding her draft stock is growing fast. Staley’s endorsement only intensifies the spotlight, and if Raven maintains her upward trajectory, she could very well hear her name called earlier than many predicted.
For now, the message from one of the greatest basketball minds is unmistakable:
Raven Johnson is ready — and she’s first-round material.
