South Carolina Women’s Basketball Hosts Top Transfers After Landing Scoring Star Ta’Niya Latson
The South Carolina Gamecocks have already made a splash in the transfer portal, securing a commitment from Ta’Niya Latson, the former Florida State guard and the nation’s leading scorer. But head coach Dawn Staley isn’t done yet.
Over the weekend, two more high-profile transfer targets — Madina Okot and Gianna Kneepkens — made visits to Columbia, signaling that USC is still very much in the mix for more elite talent.
Madina Okot: A Dominant Post Presence
A 6-foot-6 center formerly with Mississippi State, Madina Okot is known for her double-double potential. Her monster 21-point, 23-rebound game against Vanderbilt this season turned heads, and she’s been one of the most sought-after post players in the portal.
South Carolina was considered an early favorite to land her, though there hadn’t been any confirmation — until now. This weekend, Okot was spotted around downtown Columbia with Gamecock post players Maryam Dauda and Adhel Tac. The trio even shared parts of the visit on social media.
Having originally begun her career playing overseas in Kenya, Okot’s exact eligibility status is somewhat unclear, but her talent is undeniable.
Gianna Kneepkens: Elite Shooter on the Market
Meanwhile, Gianna Kneepkens, a standout guard from Utah, also visited South Carolina this weekend. The 6-foot sharpshooter is widely regarded as one of the best perimeter threats and overall players in the portal. She can operate effectively both as an off-ball guard and a true wing.
According to On3’s Talia Goodman, Kneepkens was confirmed to be in Columbia on Sunday. Her visit comes after trips to Oklahoma and Texas, with a UCLA visit still on the schedule. She has one year of eligibility remaining.
Decision Time Approaching
With the transfer portal window closing soon, and nearly 30% of players already committed to new programs, decisions from both Okot and Kneepkens could be coming in the very near future. Each has been in the portal for over two weeks, and insiders believe moves may be imminent.
If USC secures a commitment from either player, it would strengthen their case as having one of the top portal classes in the country. But if Staley lands both, there would be no doubt.
Roster Update and Needs
Of course, the Gamecocks haven’t come through this offseason untouched. MiLaysia Fulwiley, a dynamic guard, and Sakima Walker, a veteran post player, have both chosen to transfer out.
However, Latson’s arrival effectively fills Fulwiley’s role in the backcourt. As for replacing Walker, the coaching staff is targeting bigs like Okot, who would likely take on an even more significant role.
With up to four scholarships available, Coach Staley still has room to operate. She’s been clear about her intentions:
“We want to improve our team through the portal,” Staley emphasized recently.
While she isn’t hesitant to leave spots open, the pursuit of elite talent shows the Gamecocks are fully committed to reloading for another championship run.
