South Carolina women’s basketball received an encouraging — though measured — update from practice this week as Ta’Niya Latson and Alicia Tournebize were both active on the floor, signaling progress in their respective recoveries. However, despite the positive momentum, neither player is expected to suit up in tomorrow’s game, according to head coach Dawn Staley.
Following practice, Staley provided a brief but telling update that captured the current state of both players’ timelines.
“They’re ramping up, though,” Staley said.
The comment suggests that while Latson and Tournebize are moving closer to full availability, the coaching staff is choosing patience over urgency as SEC play continues.
Ta’Niya Latson’s Progress
Latson, one of the most dynamic guards in the country, has been working her way back from a left ankle sprain suffered late in December. Since the injury, South Carolina has taken a conservative, day-to-day approach, prioritizing long-term health over short-term gains.
Her return to practice — even in a limited capacity — is a significant step. Latson’s presence on the court, participating in drills and movement work, indicates that she is responding well to treatment and gradually regaining comfort and confidence. However, the decision to hold her out of game action underscores the staff’s desire to ensure she is fully ready before returning to the physical demands of SEC competition.
Latson’s absence has been noticeable, but South Carolina’s depth has allowed the team to remain dominant while giving her the necessary time to recover properly.
Alicia Tournebize’s Continued Integration
For Tournebize, the situation is slightly different but equally encouraging. The highly anticipated freshman has been practicing as she continues to adjust to the program, but she is still navigating eligibility, conditioning, and system familiarity after arriving midseason.
Her participation in practice reflects steady progress, particularly as she acclimates to the pace, physicality, and terminology of South Carolina’s system. Still, the staff appears intent on easing her into competition rather than rushing her debut, a common approach for international or midseason additions.
Tournebize’s size and versatility make her a potential asset later in the season, but Staley has made it clear that readiness — not urgency — will dictate when she sees game action.
Why South Carolina Can Afford Patience
South Carolina’s ability to wait on both players is a testament to the program’s depth and balance. Even without Latson’s scoring punch and Tournebize’s interior potential, the Gamecocks have continued to win convincingly, leaning on a rotation that spreads responsibility across the roster.
Staley’s comment about both players “ramping up” suggests that their returns are not far off, but also reinforces the program’s philosophy: health, chemistry, and timing matter more than forcing a comeback.
Looking Ahead
While Latson and Tournebize are unlikely to play tomorrow, their presence at practice marks a meaningful turning point. Each day of increased activity brings them closer to contributing, and South Carolina fans can take comfort in knowing that both players are trending in the right direction.
For now, the focus remains on gradual progression — with an eye toward having both players ready when the stakes are highest later in the season.
Source:
- dcpandc | X (formerly Twitter) — Practice report and Dawn Staley quote
