“I Just Got My Feet Wet” After Three-Game Absence 🏀
Senior Guard Makes Triumphant Comeback Against Georgia
After three agonizing games on the sideline, South Carolina senior guard Ta’Niya Latson finally heard her name called in the starting lineup again—and she made sure her return was memorable, even if it was just the beginning of her journey back to full strength.
Latson, who had been sidelined with a sprained left ankle, returned to action against Georgia in what she described as a chance to “get her feet wet” after the frustrating layoff. While her 20 minutes of playing time were carefully managed by the coaching staff, the veteran guard showed flashes of the player who has been so crucial to South Carolina’s success this season.
A Steady Return to Form
In her limited action, Latson posted a solid line of nine points, three rebounds, and three assists—numbers that may not jump off the stat sheet but represented significant progress for a player working her way back from injury. The measured minutes reflected the coaching staff’s cautious approach to reintegrating one of their most important players.
But it was Latson’s very first shot attempt that told the story of her return. The senior guard knocked down a three-pointer, and in that moment, she felt the weight of the three-game absence lift from her shoulders.
“Obviously, it sucks not being out there,” Latson admitted candidly after the game, reflecting on the difficulty of watching from the sideline while her teammates battled through SEC play.
That opening three-pointer served as more than just points on the scoreboard—it was a confidence-building moment that allowed Latson to shake off the rust and the nerves that naturally accompany a return from injury.
Learning from the Sideline
While being injured is never ideal, Latson used her time away from the court productively, gaining a different perspective on the game by observing from the bench alongside injured teammate Chloe Kitts and the coaching staff.
“I learned from Chloe and from my coaching staff and just seeing things differently,” Latson explained, highlighting the silver lining of her forced absence. The opportunity to study the game from a coach’s perspective and discuss strategy with the staff provided valuable insights that can only be gained from watching rather than playing.
This mental aspect of recovery is often overlooked, but for a senior guard like Latson, the time spent analyzing game film, studying defensive schemes, and understanding offensive adjustments from the sideline could prove invaluable as the season progresses into its most critical stretch.
Taking It Day by Day
Despite her successful return, Latson remained grounded and realistic about her comeback, emphasizing that this was just the first step in a gradual process back to full form.
“I feel like today I just got my feet wet. I’m looking to continue to build off of this today and take things day by day,” she said, displaying the maturity and patience that comes with being a senior leader.
The “day by day” approach reflects both Latson’s understanding of the recovery process and the program’s commitment to not rushing her back too quickly. With the massive showdown against Texas looming and March Madness on the horizon, South Carolina needs Latson at 100%—and that means being smart about her workload now.
What This Means for South Carolina
Latson’s return, even in a limited capacity, provides South Carolina with another offensive weapon and experienced ball-handler at a crucial point in the season. Her ability to create her own shot, facilitate for others, and provide veteran leadership cannot be overstated.
The fact that she was able to contribute nine points in just 20 minutes—while still shaking off rust and managing her ankle—is an encouraging sign. As her conditioning improves and the ankle continues to heal, those numbers should only increase.
Head coach Dawn Staley has repeatedly emphasized the importance of having a full, healthy roster as the competition intensifies. With Latson back in the fold, South Carolina’s depth chart looks significantly stronger, giving the coaching staff more options in crucial moments.
The Road Ahead
As Latson continues to build her conditioning and confidence, the Gamecocks will need her at her best for the challenges ahead. The upcoming game against Texas will be a major test, and having a healthy Latson available—even if she’s not quite at 100%—gives South Carolina a significant advantage.
Her positive attitude, combined with the careful management of her minutes, suggests that the senior guard is on the right track. The three-pointer to start her return wasn’t just a shot—it was a statement that Ta’Niya Latson is back, and she’s ready to help lead South Carolina through the most important stretch of the season.
For now, she’s taking it one day at a time, getting her feet wet, and preparing to make an even bigger impact as her ankle continues to strengthen. If her first game back is any indication, the rest of the SEC should be on notice: Ta’Niya Latson is back, and she’s just getting started.
Game Stats Recap:
Ta’Niya Latson vs. Georgia
- Minutes: 20
- Points: 9
- Rebounds: 3
- Assists: 3
- First shot: Three-pointer (made)
The senior guard’s return provides a significant boost to South Carolina’s championship aspirations as they navigate the toughest stretch of their schedule.
