“I Saw Raven’s Eyes”: Extending 35-0 Run to Elite 8, Coach Dawn Staley Exudes Passion in Post Game Interview

No team has figured out a way yet how to get past Dawn Staley’s formidable Gamecocks. After dominating the opening two rounds of the March Madness, South Carolina was in a tight spot in their Sweet 16 matchup against Indiana. But just like against Tennessee in the SEC semi-finals, a strong-willed player showed tremendous character and saved the day as well as the streak for the Gamecocks.

While on the previous occasion, it was the Brazillian wonder, Kamilla Cardoso, this time around, sophomore guard Raven Johnson played her cards right. Reflecting on the moment, a jubilant Staley narrated the exact moment in the post-game press conference.

She was asked about the emotions that were running at that time when Indiana was making a comeback. Her reply was, “Before that shot, I saw in Raven’s eyes. When it was coming down the stretch and our lead was diminishing, I knew she wasn’t going to let us lose.” 

Just when everyone thought the Hoosiers were about to cut the 22-point lead, a critical three in the final minute by the 21-year-old provided some breathing space for the 2022 NCAA champions. Eventually, that proved crucial in the end as South Carolina secured a 79-75 win in the Albany 1 Region semifinals.

Read More: Suspension of Kamilla Cardoso Doesn’t Hurt Dawn Staley and Co. as South Carolina Extend 33–0 Run

With the ending 3-pointer, Raven was able to avoid the greatest comeback in NCAA’s history so far.

Dawn Staley’s Super Streak Continues

The unending streak continues for the Gamecocks as they get over 4th-seed Indiana Hoosiers in their rollercoaster Sweet-sixteen. After the match, Johnson, who added 14 points, 6 assists and 5 rebounds talked about their performance. Being glad that their lessons are also only coming from wins, the No. 25 in South Carolina showed her concern.

She said, “We’re not always going to come out with a W if we keep doing this. It’s going to get harder the further we go. I’m just glad we’re learning lessons from winning.” The red-shirt sophomore ended on a happy note saying, “If Coach Staley has confidence in you, you’ve got to think highly of that.”

Dawn Staley has undoubtedly created a robust yet humble team around her. Her team knows how to win, take credit, stay on the ground, and know when to take charge. Undeniably, she is a superb coach with an amazing group of young ladies with as a deep passion for basketball as she does.

Read More: Tara VanDerveer and Dawn Staley – Master and Apprentice, Historical Significance of 2 Veteran NCAA Coaches

What do you think about South Carolina’s last-moment win?