In a major update ahead of No. 3 South Carolina’s SEC showdown against Arkansas on Thursday, the official SEC student-athlete availability report and comments from head coach Dawn Staley confirm that Ta’Niya Latson and Alicia Tournebize will not play — even though both have been participating in limited practice this week. (On3)
Despite the absence on the official SEC availability listings, media outlets reporting on statements from Staley indicate both players are “ramping up” on the practice court but remain unlikely to see game action tonight. (WCIV)
Here’s the full breakdown of the latest developments and how this impacts South Carolina heading into a crucial road test at Arkansas.
Status Update: Latson & Tournebize Out Against Arkansas
Head coach Dawn Staley, speaking to reporters during Wednesday’s SEC availability press conference, made it clear that neither Ta’Niya Latson (ankle) nor Alicia Tournebize (midseason signee) will likely suit up for the Gamecocks against the Razorbacks. Staley’s exact words were:
“No, probably not… they’re ramping up, though,” referring to both players’ progress in practice. (EssentiallySports)
This mirrors local reporting from WACH/ABC News, which also relayed Staley’s response that both Latson and Tournebize are not expected to play on Thursday despite their activity in practice drills. (WCIV)
What We Know About the Injuries & Availability
Ta’Niya Latson:
Latson suffered a left ankle sprain on Dec. 28 against Providence when driving to the rim and landing awkwardly. She left that game early and was subsequently sidelined for South Carolina’s SEC opener and road contest versus Florida. (On3)
Though no longer in a walking boot and seen participating in practice, Staley and the medical staff are taking a cautious approach, aiming to avoid a rushed return — especially with Latson’s high scoring role and key offensive responsibilities. (On3)
Alicia Tournebize:
Tournebize, a 6-foot-7 forward from France who arrived in Columbia in early January, has been practicing as she completes eligibility and adjusts to the system. Despite glimpses of progress in team sessions, Staley reiterated that she is not yet ready for game action and will continue to ramp up in practice before earning a debut. (On3)
What “Ramping Up” Really Means
When Staley says players are “ramping up,” she refers to increasing practice involvement, conditioning, and learning the Gamecocks’ schemes. Both athletes have been spotted participating in limited drills during the latter parts of practice — an encouraging step but not yet sufficient for live competition against an SEC opponent. (On3)
Staley explained the approach is deliberate, emphasizing health and readiness rather than forcing a player back before they’re truly prepared — a philosophy that has helped sustain South Carolina’s long-term competitiveness. (On3)
Impact on Thursday’s Arkansas Game
With Latson and Tournebize ruled out, South Carolina will rely on its depth and balance to handle Arkansas on the road. Latson’s absence continues a trend from recent SEC games, where the Gamecocks have already succeeded without her full-strength lineup. (On3)
Latson’s status has been a key storyline this season; she has been one of the team’s top scorers and playmakers — averaging a significant scoring load before the ankle injury — making her continued absence notable. (On3)
On the flip side, Arkansas enters this matchup seeking its first SEC win, and the Razorbacks may see this as an opportunity to stay competitive right up to tip-off. (Southeastern Conference)
What’s Next
Both players are expected to continue their recovery and practice progression after the Arkansas game. Latson could return once she is cleared by medical staff and feels confident in her movement, while Tournebize’s timetable remains tied to her integration into the team’s system and physical readiness.
Among fans and analysts alike, the shared sentiment is clear: a cautious and healthy return later in the season is more valuable than rushing either player back and risking further setbacks.
Sources:
• South Carolina women’s basketball availability and Staley practice quotes — On3.com / EssentiallySports. (On3)
• Latson & Tournebize not expected to play — WACH/ABC News. (WCIV)
• Arkansas Razorbacks team context — SEC Sports. (Southeastern Conference)
