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GOOD NEWS: Four Gamecocks Earn All-America Status
In a remarkable display of talent, determination, and elite-level performance, four standout players from the South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball team have earned All-America honors for the 2024-2025 season. This prestigious recognition places the Gamecocks firmly at the top of the women’s college basketball world and highlights the program’s consistent excellence under head coach Dawn Staley.
This year’s All-America honorees include senior forward Kamilla Cardoso, junior guard Raven Johnson, sophomore guard MiLaysia Fulwiley, and junior forward Ashlyn Watkins. Each of these women has played a critical role in leading the Gamecocks to another dominant season, and their recognition is a testament not only to their individual talent but also to the strength and depth of the South Carolina program.
Kamilla Cardoso: The Anchor in the Paint
Senior leader Kamilla Cardoso has capped off her college career with All-America honors for the second consecutive year. At 6-foot-7, Cardoso is a force in the paint, anchoring the Gamecocks’ defense and serving as a reliable post presence on offense. Her averages of 14.2 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game not only led the team in multiple categories but also ranked her among the nation’s best in efficiency and rim protection.
Cardoso’s ability to alter shots, control the glass, and finish around the rim made her a nightmare matchup for opponents. She brought poise and experience to a relatively young Gamecocks roster and was often the stabilizing force in tight games. Her leadership, both on and off the court, was invaluable, and her All-America nod solidifies her legacy as one of South Carolina’s all-time greats.
Raven Johnson: The Court General
Junior point guard Raven Johnson took her game to new heights this season, orchestrating the Gamecocks’ offense with precision and flair. Averaging 9.7 points, 6.1 assists, and 2.3 steals per game, Johnson was the heartbeat of South Carolina’s up-tempo, aggressive style of play.
Her vision, decision-making, and tenacious defense set her apart from other guards across the nation. Johnson’s leadership from the point guard position allowed the team’s young scorers to flourish, while her clutch performances in big games—most notably during conference play and in the SEC Tournament—proved her All-American caliber.
Johnson’s All-America recognition is a well-deserved milestone in her upward career trajectory. She not only filled the shoes of her predecessor, Destanni Henderson, but carved out a distinct identity as one of the premier point guards in the nation.
MiLaysia Fulwiley: The Rising Star
Sophomore sensation MiLaysia Fulwiley turned heads all season with her electric style of play and fearless attitude. After a promising freshman campaign, Fulwiley made a massive leap in her second year, averaging 15.1 points, 4.5 assists, and 1.8 steals per game while shooting efficiently from both inside and beyond the arc.
Fulwiley’s explosiveness in transition, creative finishes around the rim, and growing leadership presence made her a fan favorite and a constant highlight on national sports reels. Her court awareness and flashy moves drew comparisons to past legends of the game, and her fearless performances in the SEC and NCAA tournaments were pivotal to South Carolina’s deep postseason run.
Earning her first All-America selection, Fulwiley is quickly becoming one of the brightest stars in women’s college basketball. With two more years of eligibility, her ceiling remains incredibly high.
Ashlyn Watkins: The Two-Way Weapon
Junior forward Ashlyn Watkins made her All-America debut this year after a breakout season that showcased her incredible athleticism and improved skill set. Known early in her career for her dunks and defensive prowess, Watkins added a polished offensive game to her resume in 2024-2025, finishing the season with averages of 12.8 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game.
Watkins’ versatility allowed Coach Staley to use her in multiple roles, whether as a defensive stopper, rebounder, or scoring threat in the paint. Her ability to guard multiple positions and run the floor made her a matchup nightmare for opposing teams.
Watkins’ growth and consistency were key reasons the Gamecocks remained among the nation’s elite despite significant roster turnover from previous seasons. Her All-America honor is a reflection of her hard work, development, and impact on both ends of the court.
Dawn Staley’s Masterclass in Player Development
While the individual accolades are impressive, they also highlight the broader success of South Carolina’s program under the leadership of head coach Dawn Staley. Known for her ability to recruit top talent and mold them into elite players, Staley once again proved why she is considered one of the greatest coaches in women’s basketball.
With four All-Americans in one season, South Carolina’s depth, development, and team chemistry have never been more evident. This rare feat not only boosts the program’s prestige but also sends a message to future recruits: if you want to develop into one of the nation’s best, Columbia, South Carolina is the place to be.
Looking Ahead
With Cardoso likely headed to the WNBA, the torch will be passed to Johnson, Fulwiley, and Watkins to lead the next chapter of Gamecock excellence. The future remains incredibly bright for South Carolina, and with a top-tier recruiting class already signed for 2025, the momentum shows no signs of slowing down.
The All-America honors are a celebration not just of past success but of what lies ahead for a program that continues to redefine greatness. As the banners go up and the accolades roll in, one thing is clear: the Gamecocks aren’t just building a team—they’re building a dynasty.
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