Tessa Johnson, a junior guard for the South Carolina women’s basketball team, has made headlines as she reached a significant milestone of 1000 career points during a recent game against TCU. This achievement came during a crucial Elite 8 matchup, where the Gamecocks triumphed over TCU with a commanding score of 78-52.
In the fourth quarter of the game, Johnson showcased her skills by scoring 11 points, contributing significantly to her team’s victory. Her 1000th point was notably scored from a 3-point attempt, a testament to her shooting prowess. “I did not know that … I’m not going to lie, I didn’t even know about it. But I don’t really care, as long as we won the game,” Johnson remarked, reflecting her team-first mentality.
The South Carolina Gamecocks have now reached the Final Four for the sixth consecutive year, a remarkable feat that underscores the program’s dominance in women’s college basketball. They will face off against the UConn Huskies on April 3, 2026, in what promises to be an exciting matchup. The game will be broadcast on ESPN, allowing fans to witness this pivotal moment in NCAA history.
In addition to Johnson’s achievement, her teammate Raven Johnson also reached the 1000 career points milestone during the NCAA Tournament, highlighting the depth of talent on the South Carolina roster. Agot Makeer was another standout in the game against TCU, scoring 18 points and further solidifying the Gamecocks’ offensive strength.
The team has embraced a new motto, as evidenced by the popular T-shirt that reads, “Who can guard Tessa?” This phrase has resonated with fans and players alike, showcasing the support and camaraderie within the team. Ta’Niya Latson, another teammate, expressed her pride in Johnson’s accomplishments, stating, “It’s just a national thing at this point. Everybody’s buying T-shirts, and they’re so happy for her. So I’m happy for her.”
As the Gamecocks prepare for their upcoming Final Four game, observers are eager to see how Johnson and her teammates will perform against a formidable opponent like UConn. The stakes are high, and the excitement surrounding the tournament continues to build.
