No. 3 South Carolina continues to keep its cards close to the vest regarding the availability of two key players ahead of Thursday’s SEC battle with Mississippi State.
Ta’Niya Latson and Agot Makeer both sat out Monday’s victory over Texas A&M with what the program described as “leg injuries,” and their status for Thursday’s game remains uncertain.
Staley Offers No Hints on Availability
During Wednesday’s practice, both players were visible during the media-accessible portion, participating in limited activities. Latson was noticeably wearing a brace on her left knee, but head coach Dawn Staley deflected questions about their potential return.
“I guess you’ll know tonight,” Staley said. “You’ll figure it out tonight (when the availability report is released).”
Latson’s Injury Timeline and Season Performance
Latson’s most recent absence began during South Carolina’s matchup with Auburn, where she played the first half and scored five points before sitting out the entire second half.
This marks the second injury setback of the season for the Florida State transfer. She previously missed three games after suffering a sprained ankle against Providence, with Makeer starting in her place during that stretch.
Despite the interruptions, Latson is posting career-best efficiency numbers this season. While averaging 15.2 points, 3.3 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 1.8 steals—all career lows in volume—she’s shooting 49.3% overall and 39.3% from three-point range, both career highs. The numbers represent a significant adjustment for a player who led the nation in scoring last season at Florida State with 25.2 points per game.
Makeer’s Injury Details and Impact
Makeer’s injury occurred early in the Auburn game on January 29 under concerning circumstances. She fell after being fouled on a drive and was slow to rise. Though she remained in the game to convert the free throw for a three-point play, her movement became progressively more labored with each trip down the court.
She eventually substituted out and headed directly to the locker room. Makeer later returned to the bench with some type of wrap visible on her hip and thigh area.
The injury adds to what has already been a challenging season for Makeer, who missed five games in December while in concussion protocol.
In 18 games this season, Makeer has averaged 6.5 points, 4.2 rebounds, 1.1 steals, and 0.9 blocks. She’s started five games—the first three during Latson’s ankle injury absence, and the last two earned through strong play.
Her conference performance has been particularly impressive. In eight SEC games, Makeer averaged 7.3 points, 3.9 rebounds, 1.0 blocks, and 1.4 steals. Her defensive pressure and ability to convert defense into offense have been standout qualities.
Injury-Plagued Season for Gamecocks
The absences of Latson and Makeer represent just the latest chapter in what has been an injury-riddled season for South Carolina. The Gamecocks have started just nine of 24 games with their full roster available, and finished only six games with everyone healthy.
Those numbers don’t even account for Chloe Kitts, who was lost for the season in October with a torn ACL. Beyond Makeer, Maddy McDaniel, Madina Okot, Tessa Johnson, and Adhel Tac have each missed at least one game due to injury or illness.
As South Carolina prepares to host Mississippi State on Thursday, the official word on Latson and Makeer’s availability will come via the SEC’s injury report, leaving fans and opponents alike to wait for clarity on the Gamecocks’ lineup.
