South Carolina Women’s Basketball Emerges as Top Transfer Portal Winner with Big-Time Additions
With the college basketball transfer portal now closed and rosters taking shape, the South Carolina Gamecocks are making headlines as one of the biggest offseason winners. Under the leadership of head coach Dawn Staley, the Gamecocks approached the transfer window with precision — targeting key positions and landing elite talent to maintain their status as a national contender.
ESPN ranked South Carolina No. 3 in its list of transfer portal victories, thanks to high-impact acquisitions that strengthen an already formidable squad.
Filling the Fulwiley Void
While the departure of star guard MiLaysia Fulwiley to LSU came as a blow to fans, the Gamecocks didn’t spend time licking their wounds. Instead, they made a major statement by bringing in Ta’Niya Latson — a scoring phenom from Florida State.
Latson, who led the nation in scoring last season, is already being hailed as “the most productive guard of the Dawn Staley era.” Her explosive offense and ability to control tempo make her a massive asset to a team hungry for another title run.
Fortifying the Frontcourt
Not stopping there, Staley added height and muscle with the addition of Madina Okot, a 6-foot-6 center from Mississippi State. As a freshman, Okot showcased serious potential in rim protection and interior dominance — exactly what the Gamecocks need to reinforce their defense in the paint.
With her presence in the lane, South Carolina regains the physical edge that has long defined their championship-caliber teams.
Championship Hopes for 2025–26
Thanks to the powerful additions of Latson and Okot, the Gamecocks are eyeing another deep Final Four run — and possibly their third national title under Coach Staley. The combination of incoming star power and returning talent makes South Carolina a team to watch as the 2025–26 season approaches.
The message is clear: Dawn Staley and the Gamecocks aren’t just reloading — they’re coming back stronger.
