As July rolled in, new South Carolina transfer guard Ta’Niya Latson met with the media in Columbia for the first time, offering insights into her decision-making process, her goals, and what excites her about being a Gamecock.
On NBA Interest in Dawn Staley
Latson didn’t flinch when asked about rumors involving the New York Knicks reaching out to Coach Dawn Staley.
“That’s Coach,” Latson said. “She’s Dawn Staley—she is the standard. I think it’s only right that even NBA teams want to talk to her. But of course, we’re going to do our best to keep her here. Ultimately, that’s her decision.”
Recruiting War: Why South Carolina Won
The portal was buzzing with interest for Latson.
“I talked to a lot of schools,” she revealed. “LSU, UConn, Tennessee… But I had clear goals and a vision for myself, and South Carolina just matched that perfectly.”
NIL Temptations Were There—But Didn’t Define Her Choice
Latson acknowledged the impact of NIL in today’s game, but she wasn’t swayed by flashy offers.
“NIL is huge now, especially for women’s basketball,” she said. “But I’ve always had bigger goals beyond just money. I knew what I wanted, and I believe everything else will follow if I stay focused.”
Adjusting to a New Role? Not a Problem
Coming from Florida State where she was the offensive centerpiece, Latson is ready to share the spotlight in Columbia.
“I’ve actually played with a lot of these girls in AAU, so it’s not new,” she explained. “The biggest adjustment for me was going from a team with talent to being the main scorer at FSU. Now, it’s about being efficient, under control, and creating for others—things WNBA scouts are watching.”
The Raven Johnson Effect
Latson credited her high school teammate and close friend, Raven Johnson, for nudging her toward Columbia.
“She’s my sister,” Latson smiled. “When we talked, she definitely helped convince me. That made everything easier.”
The Underrated Side of Her Decision
While basketball mattered, Latson also valued the academic and support systems at South Carolina.
“They’re making sure I’m covered academically—with tutors, academic coaches, everything,” she said. “A lot of schools don’t put that kind of support in place. That was big for me.”
On the Court Again With Raven
Reuniting with Raven Johnson already feels like magic.
“First assist from Raven? Man, it felt great,” Latson said. “I was like, ‘Thank God, I got my point guard back.’ We’re working every day to rebuild that chemistry.”
Eyes on the SEC and Personal Goals
When asked what success looks like beyond a national title, Latson didn’t hesitate.
“SEC Player of the Year,” she stated confidently. “I’m always gonna bet on myself. But the real focus is winning—being more efficient, especially from the three-point line, and tightening up the little things.”
Areas for Growth
Latson is locked in on refining her game.
“My three-point shooting has to improve,” she admitted. “Also, cutting down turnovers and improving my assist-to-turnover ratio. And rebounding—because I’m in the SEC now, baby!”
Anticipating Gamecock Nation
She hasn’t played in Colonial Life Arena yet, but the hype has reached her.
“Seventeen thousand fans? That’s wild,” she said. “We didn’t have that at FSU. That kind of energy is gonna take some getting used to, but I’m ready for it.”
Staley’s Communication Style? Bring It On
Known for being demanding, Staley tailors her coaching approach to each player. Latson is embracing it.
“I want that,” she said. “Freshman me? Maybe not. But I’ve grown, and I want to be pushed. This is my last year—go hard or go home.”
Latson + Johnson: A Natural Duo
Their on-court connection hasn’t missed a beat.
“We just get each other,” Latson said. “We’ve been doing this since high school. I know her spots, she knows mine. She gives me the confidence to just be myself.”
Helping Freshman Madina Okot Adjust
Latson is already impressed with Okot’s development.
“She’s gonna be a problem down low,” she said. “Coach said she’s our secret weapon, and in practice, she’s been showing out.”
Who’s the Loudest Leader in Practice Now?
With Sania Feagin gone, Latson pointed to Chloe Kitts.
“Chloe’s definitely finding her voice,” she said. “We’re also encouraging Maddy to speak up. Everyone’s adjusting—we’re a new group with new energy.”
Building Chemistry with the Bigs
It’s still early, but Latson is working to connect with her forwards.
“We’re figuring out each other’s games,” she said. “It’s only been two weeks, but we’re getting there.”
Early Impressions of the Roster?
One word: dogs.
“We’re all dogs,” she said. “Maddy, Chloe, Tessa, Raven—we’re hungry. Even after practice, we want more. We’re not just here to play, we’re here to win.”
Feeling Overlooked at Florida State
Despite a stellar run, Latson believes her efforts were somewhat underappreciated.
“Florida State will always have my heart,” she said. “We had a great year, even if we didn’t hit every goal. But yeah, I feel like I flew under the radar a bit.”
Falling in Love with Columbia
The city and its people have already won her over.
“Everyone’s so nice here. That surprised me,” she said. “It’s been a really warm welcome.
