Columbia, SC — South Carolina women’s basketball delivered a dominant 96-55 performance against Providence to close out nonconference play, but the lopsided victory was overshadowed by a concerning injury to senior guard Ta’Niya Latson that could have significant implications for the top-ranked Gamecocks as they prepare to begin SEC competition.
The Injury That Changed Everything
The game’s narrative shifted dramatically midway through the second quarter when Latson went down with a lower left leg injury that forced her from the contest. With 4:18 remaining before halftime, the senior guard was attacking the basket in transition when she appeared to lose her footing—possibly stepping on a defender’s foot, though replays were inconclusive—and crumpled to the floor while attempting a layup.
Latson immediately grabbed her foot in obvious pain, prompting head coach Dawn Staley and athletic trainer Craig Oates to rush onto the court. After helping her to her feet, it became clear the injury was serious enough that Latson couldn’t bear weight on the affected foot as they assisted her to the locker room.
The sight sent a chill through Colonial Life Arena, as one of South Carolina’s most dynamic playmakers hobbled off the court just as she was putting together another stellar performance.
Latson’s Impact Before Departure
Prior to the injury, Latson had been exceptional, showcasing exactly why she’s become such a crucial component of South Carolina’s championship aspirations. She had accumulated 10 points and four assists, displaying the efficiency and playmaking ability that have defined her senior campaign. Her only missed field goal attempt came on the very play where she suffered the injury.
Entering the game, Latson was enjoying a career year, averaging 17.4 points, 4.0 assists, 3.7 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per contest. Perhaps most impressive were her shooting percentages—career-best marks of 51.0% from the field and 40.0% from three-point range that reflected her maturation as a scorer and decision-maker.
Initial Prognosis and Uncertainty
In her postgame interview on the SEC Network, Staley offered a cautiously optimistic assessment of the injury.
“An ankle sprain, for right now. Knock on wood,” Staley said, carefully hedging her diagnosis.
Speaking with local media afterward, the coach provided a bit more context about Latson’s condition following the game.
“She’s smiling. She got treatment all second half and just walked out,” Staley said. “I think we’ll look at her tomorrow.”
The fact that Latson remained with the team, received treatment during the second half, and was able to walk out—albeit presumably with assistance or gingerly—provided some hope that the injury might not be as severe as initially feared. However, the inability to put weight on the foot immediately after the incident and the need for Monday’s reevaluation suggests the Gamecocks are treating the situation with appropriate caution.
A Game of Contrasts
Beyond the injury concern, the game itself lived up to its billing as a tale of two distinctly different halves, with South Carolina struggling to find defensive consistency early before asserting complete dominance after intermission.
The First Half: Offensive Fireworks, Defensive Lapses
South Carolina came out ablaze offensively, connecting on 10 of their first 11 shot attempts, including an impressive 5-of-6 performance from three-point range. The offensive explosion produced 29 first-quarter points and appeared to signal a potential blowout from the opening tip.
However, defensive issues kept Providence within striking distance. The Friars capitalized on South Carolina’s lack of discipline and awareness, scoring 19 points on 47.4% shooting in the opening quarter.
“We were a little undisciplined,” Dawn Staley said. “Sometimes when we face teams like that, we get their very best, and when you get somebody’s very best you just have to ride the wave.”
The second quarter saw South Carolina’s early momentum evaporate. Whether due to fatigue from the holiday break, the emotional toll of watching Latson exit with an injury, or simply a natural cooling-off period, the Gamecocks managed just 41% shooting in the frame and extended their lead by only two points. The typical post-Christmas rust that Staley’s teams have historically needed to shake off was evident.
The Second Half: Championship-Level Execution
Following halftime adjustments, South Carolina emerged as a completely different team and overwhelmed Providence with the kind of comprehensive performance that has made them the nation’s top-ranked squad.
The offensive efficiency returned with the Gamecocks shooting 51.4% in the final two quarters while knocking down 6-of-16 three-point attempts. More importantly, the defense found its identity and absolutely suffocated Providence, holding the Friars to just 21 combined points on a dismal 23.3% shooting performance.
South Carolina’s physicality showed up on the glass as well, outrebounding Providence by 11 in the second half to control possessions and limit second-chance opportunities. Providence, which had managed eight second-chance points off four offensive rebounds in the first half, was held to just three second-chance points on four offensive boards after intermission.
Balanced Attack Carries the Load
With Latson sidelined for the majority of the game, South Carolina needed contributions throughout the roster, and multiple players answered the call.
Johnson and Okot Lead the Way
Tessa Johnson and Madina Okot shared scoring honors with 18 points apiece. Okot’s complete performance included 13 rebounds, giving her an impressive 10th double-double of the season and continuing her emergence as one of the SEC’s premier two-way centers.
Edwards’ Second-Half Surge
Joyce Edwards shook off early struggles to make a significant impact after halftime. The talented forward scored 10 of her 14 points in the second half, showcasing her ability to adjust and find her rhythm as the game progressed.
Raven Johnson’s Orchestration
Point guard Raven Johnson provided steady floor leadership with 10 points and six assists, helping South Carolina maintain offensive flow even after losing one of their primary ball-handlers in Latson.
Makeer’s Milestone Return
Perhaps the game’s brightest individual storyline—aside from the injury concern—was Agot Makeer’s triumphant return from a five-game absence due to concussion protocol. The forward not only looked healthy but achieved a career milestone, recording her first double-double with 10 points and a career-high 10 rebounds across 23 minutes.
“I’m happy to be in the double-double club now,” Makeer said. “At the start of the season, I struggled to get into a rhythm a little bit. Being out for the last five games, I saw a different perspective from the sideline, sitting next to Chloe (Kitts). Still getting confidence from coaches and stuff helped a lot, so once I got out there, I knew it would come.”
Staley praised Makeer’s conditioning and effectiveness, particularly noting she played the entire third quarter—a significant workload for someone returning from extended absence.
“With extended minutes, I thought she looked good,” Staley said. “She played the entire third quarter, and hopefully she can continue to stack days and connect days where she could help us. She’s going to have to help us, depending on what we hear tomorrow with Ta’Niya and how long she’ll be out.”
That final comment underscored the reality facing South Carolina: Makeer’s return couldn’t have come at a better time given the uncertainty surrounding Latson’s availability.
Providence’s Effort Falls Short
Despite the lopsided final score, Providence showed fight in the early going. Sabou Gueye led the Friars with 16 points, while Tunisia Brown added 11 in a game that remained competitive for stretches of the first half before South Carolina’s talent and depth proved overwhelming.
Statistical Breakdown
The game’s statistical profile reflected South Carolina’s eventual dominance:
- South Carolina shot 12-of-29 from three-point range, marking season highs in both makes and attempts for the Gamecocks
- The free-throw line saw South Carolina convert 12-of-19 attempts
- Providence struggled mightily from distance, connecting on just 3-of-17 three-point tries
- South Carolina’s ball movement was excellent, recording 24 assists on 36 field goals
- The Friars finished 8-of-14 from the charity stripe
Roster Notes and Updates
For just the fifth time this season and the first since Thanksgiving, South Carolina began the game with all 10 available scholarship players ready to contribute. However, Latson’s injury means the Gamecocks have now finished only three games with their complete roster intact.
French prospect Alicia Tournebize continues to await completion of necessary documentation and has not yet joined the team in Columbia, though her arrival is anticipated before the spring semester begins.
In a notable academic achievement, Tessa Johnson—who completed her undergraduate degree in just 2.5 years—is now pursuing her MBA while continuing her basketball career.
The announced attendance of 15,065 provided another strong home-court atmosphere for the Gamecocks.
Looking Ahead: SEC Play and Injury Concerns
South Carolina now turns its attention to SEC competition, opening conference play on New Year’s Day against Alabama. The timing of Latson’s injury creates significant concern as the Gamecocks prepare to navigate the nation’s toughest conference.
Monday’s medical evaluation will be crucial in determining the severity of Latson’s ankle injury and establishing a timeline for her potential return. Ankle sprains can range from minor issues requiring just days of rest to more serious high-ankle sprains that can sideline players for weeks.
If Latson faces an extended absence, South Carolina’s backcourt depth will be tested. The return of Makeer provides some relief, and players like Raven Johnson and Tessa Johnson will need to shoulder increased responsibilities. The potential arrival of Tournebize could also factor into how Staley manages her rotation moving forward.
The Bottom Line
While South Carolina’s 41-point victory over Providence showcased the team’s ability to dominate when firing on all cylinders, the loss of Ta’Niya Latson—even temporarily—represents a significant challenge as the stakes increase in conference play. The senior guard’s scoring, playmaking, and leadership have been integral to South Carolina’s success this season.
The next 24-48 hours will be critical as the medical staff completes their evaluation and provides clarity on Latson’s status. For a team with national championship aspirations, health and depth will be tested as SEC play commences, and Monday’s news could significantly impact South Carolina’s outlook for the remainder of the season.
