Tessa Johnson Aims to Shed “Tournament Tessa” Label for South Carolina Women’s Basketball

South Carolina guard Tessa Johnson is ready for a new identity. She publicly declared her intention to retire the “Tournament Tessa” nickname this week. Johnson wants to be a consistent force for the Gamecocks all season long.

Her announcement came during the SEC Tipoff event in Birmingham. Johnson is expected to step into a starting role following key departures from last year’s national runner-up squad.

From Postseason Star to Everyday Performer

Johnson earned her famous moniker with a spectacular 2024 postseason run. She provided crucial sparks off the bench during the SEC and NCAA tournaments. Her performance peaked with a career-high outing in the national championship game.

Last season was more challenging for the sophomore. According to reports from SEC Media Days, Johnson struggled with inconsistency. She acknowledged the difficulty of processing the championship game loss.

Head coach Dawn Staley confirmed the need for growth. Staley told media, including SEC Network, that Johnson had a “subpar sophomore year.” She emphasized that it is now Johnson’s “time” to take the next step in her development.

Elevated Role Demands New Consistency

With Bree Hall and Te-Hina Paopao now in the WNBA, Johnson’s role expands significantly. She becomes the team’s primary returning three-point threat. Johnson also inherits Hall’s responsibility as the top perimeter defender.

New teammate Ta’Niya Latson, a transfer from Florida State, has already seen Johnson’s growth. Latson noted Johnson’s high-level play on both ends of the floor in practice. She expressed confidence in Johnson’s ability to knock down open shots created by drive-and-kick opportunities.

Staley stressed that consistency begins in daily practice. She said players must “familiarize yourself with being great every day” to translate it to game performance. This mindset shift is crucial for Johnson’s success in her new starting capacity.

South Carolina women’s basketball needs a new leader to emerge this season. Tessa Johnson appears ready to answer that call with year-round excellence, finally putting the “Tournament Tessa” narrative to rest for good.

Thought you’d like to know-

What is the “Tournament Tessa” nickname?

It refers to Tessa Johnson’s exceptional performance during the 2024 postseason. She delivered clutch plays throughout the SEC and NCAA tournaments. The nickname highlighted her ability to elevate her game in crucial moments.

Why does Tessa Johnson want to retire the nickname?

Johnson feels the label underscores her previous inconsistency during regular seasons. She wants to perform at a high level throughout the entire year. The nickname became a reminder of her struggles to maintain that elite standard consistently.

What is Johnson’s new role on the team?

She is expected to become a starter following Bree Hall’s departure. Johnson will serve as the primary returning three-point shooter. She also takes over as the team’s main perimeter defender.

How did last season impact Johnson?

Johnson described the championship loss as a difficult feeling. She is using that disappointment as motivation for the upcoming season. The experience taught her how to process adversity and grow from it.

What have coaches said about her development?

Dawn Staley acknowledged Johnson had a challenging sophomore year. She emphasized that Johnson must practice being great every day. Staley believes it is now Johnson’s “time” to lead the team.