ATLANTA — South Carolina’s new-look offense found its rhythm Thursday night as Ta’Niya Latson and Tessa Johnson each poured in 19 points, powering the Gamecocks to a 91–82 exhibition win over North Carolina.
Despite missing key contributors Reniya Kelly and Blanca Thomas, the Tar Heels kept things close through the first half before South Carolina’s depth and tempo took over after the break.
Before the game, head coach Dawn Staley emphasized that she wanted to see Tessa Johnson play with more assertiveness — and the sophomore delivered. “One of the things Dawn Staley said she wanted to see Thursday night was for Tessa Johnson to be more aggressive. She got her wish.”
Johnson, who managed just five points on 2-for-7 shooting in the previous exhibition against Anderson, wasted no time responding. Within the first eight minutes, she had already matched that total, scoring in a variety of ways — driving layups, midrange pull-ups, and timely three-pointers.
By the final buzzer, Johnson tallied 17 points, six rebounds, and two assists, shooting 3-for-5 from beyond the arc. Her rebounding presence has been particularly valuable as she steps into Bree Hall’s former role.
Meanwhile, Latson — the high-scoring transfer from Florida State — found her rhythm as the game progressed, developing strong chemistry with Johnson. After missing a few early connections, Latson set up Johnson for several open looks in the fourth quarter, showcasing the duo’s growing on-court connection.
Freshman standout Joyce Edwards continued her impressive preseason with 12 points and nine rebounds, while Madina Okot added 11 points and six boards to round out South Carolina’s balanced offensive effort.
With the regular season opener against Grand Canyon on the horizon, Staley’s team looks to be finding its identity — fast, versatile, and unselfish — just in time for another championship-caliber run.
