Tessa Johnson, a junior guard for the South Carolina women’s basketball team, recently made headlines by reaching a remarkable milestone: her 1000th career point. This achievement came during a decisive game against TCU, where the Gamecocks triumphed with a score of 78-52 in the Elite 8.
In that game, Johnson scored 11 points in the fourth quarter, cementing her role as a key player for her team. Her milestone point was notably a 3-point attempt, showcasing her skill and determination on the court. “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 after the match.
The South Carolina Gamecocks have now advanced to the Final Four for the sixth consecutive year, a testament to their consistent performance in women’s college basketball. They are set to face the UConn Huskies on April 3, 2026, in a highly anticipated matchup that will be broadcast on ESPN.
Johnson’s teammate, Agot Makeer, also contributed significantly to the victory over TCU, scoring 18 points. Additionally, Raven Johnson, another standout player, reached her own milestone of 1000 career points during the NCAA Tournament, further highlighting the talent within the Gamecocks’ roster.
The excitement surrounding Tessa Johnson has led to a surge in support from fans, with the team adopting the motto “Who can guard Tessa?” as a symbol of their unity and encouragement. Ta’Niya Latson, a fellow player, expressed her pride in Johnson’s accomplishments, saying, “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.”
Looking ahead, the Gamecocks are preparing for their Final Four matchup against UConn, a game that promises to be a thrilling contest between two powerhouse teams. Observers anticipate that Johnson’s performance will be crucial in determining the outcome of this pivotal game.
As the team gears up for this significant event, the camaraderie and support among players like Johnson and her teammates continue to shine, showcasing the spirit of college basketball.