COLUMBIA, SC – Double Honor for South Carolina Women’s Basketball: Coach Staley and Tessa Johnson Recognized for Outstanding Season

COLUMBIA, SC – Double Honor for South Carolina Women’s Basketball: Coach Staley and Tessa Johnson Recognized for Outstanding Season

 

Columbia, SC — The South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball team continues to make waves both on and off the court.

In a season marked by excellence, perseverance, and character, two of the program’s brightest stars are being recognized for their exceptional contributions to the sport.

Head coach Dawn Staley, long admired for her leadership, integrity, and transformative impact on women’s basketball, has been awarded the “Most Humble Coach of the Season” honor.

Meanwhile, rising star Tessa Johnson has clinched the coveted “Player of the Year” award, affirming her status as one of the premier athletes in the collegiate game today.

The recognition comes at the end of a season that has captivated fans nationwide and added to the storied legacy of South Carolina’s women’s basketball.

A Humble Leader at the Helm

Coach Dawn Staley’s career is already one for the history books.

A Hall of Famer, Olympic gold medalist, and multiple-time national championship winner, Staley could easily rest on her laurels. Instead, she has consistently chosen humility, empathy, and a deep commitment to her players’ development—on and off the court.

This year, her peers, players, and fans have formally recognized that integrity, naming her the “Most Humble Coach of the Season.”

The award, given by a national panel of sportswriters, former players, and college athletic directors, highlights the importance of character in leadership—something Staley embodies in every facet of her coaching.

“This is not an individual accolade,” said Staley at a press conference.

“I stand on the shoulders of great coaches who’ve mentored me, and I’m surrounded by a team of young women who inspire me every single day. I’m just doing what I believe is right: leading with love, accountability, and purpose.”

Those who work closely with Staley say her humility is genuine and ever-present.

Whether it’s giving credit to assistant coaches, deflecting praise onto her players, or taking the time to mentor up-and-coming coaches across the country, she remains grounded in her mission to uplift others.

Tessa Johnson: A Star Ascending

If Coach Staley is the heart of the program, Tessa Johnson is the fire.

The sophomore guard has had a breakout season, dazzling fans with her explosive scoring, clutch performances, and undeniable court presence.

Averaging 18.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game, Johnson led the Gamecocks to a near-perfect season and deep postseason run.

Johnson’s crowning moment came in the SEC Championship game, where she poured in 29 points, including several momentum-shifting plays that left opponents scrambling and fans roaring.

That performance solidified her bid for “Player of the Year”, and the voting committee was unanimous in their decision.

“It’s been an incredible ride,” said Johnson in an emotional post-award interview.

“But I couldn’t have done it without my teammates, my coaches, and the fans who show up for us every game. This award belongs to all of them, too.”

Those close to the program describe Johnson as a natural leader with an insatiable drive to improve.

Her work ethic is legendary—early mornings, late nights, and always seeking feedback from coaches.

Yet like her coach, Johnson remains grounded, often praising her teammates and expressing gratitude for every opportunity.

“Tessa is the epitome of what we want in a Gamecock,” Staley said. “She’s talented, yes.

But it’s her humility, her hunger, and her heart that make her special.”

A Culture of Excellence

The dual honors for Staley and Johnson underscore the culture of excellence and unity that defines South Carolina’s program.

Under Staley’s leadership, the team has become a model not just of athletic prowess, but of values-based leadership.

Veteran players mentor freshmen. Community service is woven into the program’s calendar.

And respect—both for the game and for each other—is non-negotiable.

This ethos has paid off in spades. South Carolina remains one of the most dominant forces in women’s college basketball, regularly producing WNBA talent, selling out arenas, and inspiring young athletes nationwide.

University President Dr. Michael Amiridis praised the team, saying, “What Coach Staley and these incredible student-athletes are building is more than a program—it’s a movement.

They are champions not just of basketball, but of character, resilience, and community.”

Looking Ahead

With the season now in the books and the awards freshly announced, the Gamecocks are already looking to the future.

Johnson has hinted at returning for another season, much to the delight of fans, while Staley remains steadfast in her mission to elevate the program even further.

“We’re just getting started,” Staley said with a smile. “Every year, every game, every practice—we find new ways to grow. I’m excited for what’s next.”

For Tessa Johnson, the focus now turns to honing her game for another championship run. “I’ve learned so much this season, and I know there’s still a lot more in me.

We’re going to come back stronger, and we’re going to keep pushing.”

A Season to Remember

As banners are hung and trophies collected, South Carolina’s 2024–2025 season will be remembered as one of greatness—not just for the wins and accolades, but for the grace, humility, and teamwork that defined it.

Coach Staley and Tessa Johnson are the faces of this era, but they represent a larger truth: that success, when rooted in integrity, resonates far beyond the court.

In an age of highlight reels and high egos, South Carolina is proving that humility and heart are still the most powerful forces in sports.

And for the fans in Columbia and beyond, this season has been nothing short of inspiring.