COLUMBIA, S.C. – South Carolina guard Ta’Niya Latson is already making waves before her first official game as a Gamecock. The senior standout has been named to the Associated Press Preseason All-America First Team, the organization announced Monday.
Latson, who transferred from Florida State this offseason, was a Second Team AP All-American last year and twice earned honorable mention recognition earlier in her career. Now, she becomes one of the headline stars entering the 2025–26 season — and she’ll do it wearing garnet and black.
The former nation’s leading scorer (25.2 points per game) brings an elite scoring pedigree to Dawn Staley’s squad. During her time at Florida State, Latson was a three-time All-ACC First Team selection and built a reputation as one of the most dynamic guards in women’s college basketball.
Her career numbers speak for themselves: she’s a 44.8% career shooter, averaging 22.5 points per game, with 86 double-digit scoring efforts across 93 career contests. She’s also recorded 62 games with 20 or more points, 20 30-point performances, and a career-best 40 points at Virginia Tech on January 2, 2025.
Latson’s arrival in Columbia marks a new era for South Carolina’s backcourt, pairing her offensive firepower with the Gamecocks’ trademark defensive grit. Head coach Dawn Staley has praised Latson’s adaptability and commitment, emphasizing her potential to shine on the SEC’s biggest stage.
Fans can get their first look at Latson and the 2025–26 Gamecocks during their exhibition matchup against Anderson on Friday, October 24, at 7 p.m. inside Colonial Life Arena. Admission is free.
Stay tuned to GamecocksOnline.com and follow @GamecockWBB on social media for updates throughout the season.
2025–26 AP Preseason All-America Team
- Lauren Betts, UCLA
- Madison Booker, Texas
- Hanna Hidalgo, Notre Dame
- Ta’Niya Latson, South Carolina
- Sarah Strong, UConn
