South Carolina Dominates Grand Canyon in 94–54 Rout: Three Key Takeaways from a Statement Season Opener
South Carolina opened its season in emphatic fashion Monday night, crushing Grand Canyon 94–54 and showcasing a balanced attack led by standout guard play and a new scoring star. Here are three major takeaways from the Gamecocks’ dominant debut.
1. Gamecocks Catch Fire from Deep
After struggling from long range in both preseason exhibitions (a combined 8-for-36), South Carolina finally found its rhythm from three-point land. The Gamecocks hit early and often, with Raven Johnson setting the tone by draining a corner three to open the scoring.
Grand Canyon packed the paint to limit drives and dared South Carolina to shoot—an approach that backfired quickly.
“The three-ball was flowing, and that’s the risk,” Grand Canyon coach Winston Gandy admitted. “You’ve got to pick your poison.”
Johnson went 3-for-5 from deep, Tessa Johnson added 3-for-6, and Ta’Niya Latson, Maddy McDaniel, and Agot Makeer each chipped in a triple, proving the Gamecocks can stretch defenses when needed.
2. Ta’Niya Latson Lives Up to the Hype
In her South Carolina debut, Ta’Niya Latson looked every bit like the star Gamecock fans were promised. The former NCAA scoring leader poured in 20 points on 7-of-10 shooting, including 1-of-2 from three, while adding four assists, two turnovers, and a steal. She also drew six fouls, showing her relentless ability to attack the rim.
South Carolina showcased her versatility, running sets that allowed her to post up, pull up, or slash to the basket — and she delivered at every level.
During the game, observers tried to find a comparison for her unique game. MiLaysia Fulwiley had elite burst but less shooting consistency, while Zia Cooke could drive but often relied on mid-range shots.
For coach Dawn Staley, Latson might be something entirely new — a perfect balance of explosiveness and control.
“I don’t think Staley has ever had a player as explosive yet under control and efficient,” one reporter noted.
3. Staley Wins Her First Challenge of the Season
The NCAA’s new coaches’ challenge rule made its debut Monday, and Dawn Staley wasted no time taking advantage. With 6:06 left in the first half, she challenged a call after Latson was whistled for an offensive foul while setting a screen that led to a Tessa Johnson three-pointer.
Officials initially wiped out the basket, saying the foul occurred before the shot. Staley challenged, arguing the opposite — and she was right.
After review, the officials confirmed the shot counted, giving South Carolina three points (though the foul itself stood).
It was a small moment in a lopsided win, but a telling one — the defending champions are already sharp, assertive, and ready to adapt to the season’s new rules.
Final Take:
South Carolina’s 94–54 win was more than just a victory — it was a statement. The Gamecocks combined confident guard play, elite shot-making, and the emergence of Latson as their new offensive engine. If this was just the beginning, it’s going to be a long season for anyone standing in their way.
