Talaysia Cooper | Guard | Tennessee – NIL Amount, Net Worth, Player Information, Stats
Talaysia Cooper is a 6’0” guard for the Tennessee Lady Volunteers, standing out for her scoring ability, court vision, and defensive skills.
Originally from Turbeville, South Carolina, she has built her reputation as an impact player at every level, earning honors like McDonald’s All-American and South Carolina Gatorade Player of the Year. Her journey—from high school star to transferring from South Carolina and sitting out a season—shows her resilience and dedication to the game.
The 2024-25 season brings big expectations, as Cooper took on a leading role as a sophomore for the Lady Vols and averaged 16.6 points per game, showing off her scoring touch and all-around impact. Below is a quick look at her current statistics:
| Season | Team | Class | PPG | RPG | Height | Position |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024-25 | Tennessee | Sophomore | 16.6 | — | 6’0” | Guard |
With her size, ability to score, and proven leadership both on and off the court, Cooper has a skill set that matches the needs of WNBA teams. If her development continues on this path, she will have a strong case to be a 2026 WNBA Draft pick.
Talaysia Cooper’s Journey to Tennessee
Table of Contents
Talaysia Cooper made an impact at every step of her basketball career, shaping her path through hard work and standout performances. From high school stardom to navigating the transfer portal, every decision brought her closer to the high expectations at Tennessee.
Early Basketball Career
Talaysia Cooper began drawing attention in middle school, earning scholarship offers even before reaching high school.
At East Clarendon High School in South Carolina, she was a standout player, leading her team to a state title as an eighth grader.
Her strong skill set and athleticism allowed her to average over 25 points per game during her high school career, earning spots on prestigious lists like the McDonald’s All-American nominees. Cooper was known for her ability to drive to the rim and set up teammates, quickly becoming one of the top recruits in the country. Recognition from legendary coaches such as Dawn Staley underscored her national reputation.
High School Highlights:
- Led East Clarendon to state championship
- Consistently averaged 25+ points per game
- Named a McDonald’s All-American nominee
- Received early scholarship offers
Transition from South Carolina
After high school, Cooper committed to play for the South Carolina Gamecocks under coach Dawn Staley. Her freshman year at South Carolina saw limited playing time, and she faced tough competition on a nationally ranked roster. The adjustment was challenging, but Cooper remained focused on her long-term development.
Wanting more opportunity to showcase her skills, Cooper entered the transfer portal after her freshman season. This decision was significant, as transferring from a program as strong as South Carolina’s is never simple.
Sitting out the 2023-24 season at Tennessee tested her patience and resilience, but it gave her a chance to grow off the court and prepare for a bigger role with the Lady Vols (read more).
Joining the Lady Vols
Cooper’s move to Tennessee brought her to another powerhouse in women’s basketball: the Lady Vols. The program’s history and culture of excellence fit her ambitions perfectly. After her year off the court, she was poised to step into a leadership role and contribute immediately.
At Tennessee, Cooper’s versatility as a 6-foot guard allowed her to play multiple positions and impact both ends of the floor. The Lady Vols’ up-tempo offense is a good match for her aggressive style of play. With her background and unique skills, Cooper is now on the radar for the WNBA draft in 2026.
Player Profile Table:
| Attribute | Statistic |
|---|---|
| Position | Guard |
| Height | 6’0″ |
| High School | East Clarendon (SC) |
| College Teams | South Carolina, Tennessee |
| PPG (HS Avg) | 25+ |
| Awards | McDonald’s All-American nominee |
Talaysia Cooper’s size, court vision, and scoring touch make her an intriguing draft pick for 2026. Her journey shows steady progress and a strong work ethic, both key reasons scouts are paying attention.
Talaysia Cooper’s Role and Playing Style
Talaysia Cooper stands out as a versatile guard for Tennessee, demonstrating strong all-around skills. She excels in multiple areas: distributing the ball, scoring, and defending at an elite level.
Guard Responsibilities
As a guard, Talaysia Cooper is counted on to run the offense and set the tempo. She handles the ball for long stretches and acts as the primary playmaker. Her ability to read the floor and make quick decisions allows her to get teammates involved through precise passes and well-timed assists.
Cooper often defends opposing guards, using her quick first step and solid footwork to stay in position. She is a reliable option for bringing the ball up against both man and zone defenses. Her leadership at the top of the key helps the Lady Vols maintain control under pressure.
Offensive Contributions
Talaysia Cooper has become a consistent scoring threat for the Lady Vols. She owns a smooth pull-up jumper and the ability to finish strong at the rim. Cooper regularly creates her own shot, especially when coming off screens, and is dangerous in transition.
She tallied a career-high 33 points against Liberty on November 16, 2024, proving she can carry the scoring load when needed. Her vision also shows up in her assist numbers—she set her best mark with 7 assists in a single game. Cooper’s offensive skill set makes her valuable both as a primary scorer and a supportive teammate.
Key 2024-25 Season Stats
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Points (High) | 33 |
| Points Per Game | 13.5 |
| Assists (High) | 7 |
| Assists Per Game | 4.1 |
| Rebounds (High) | 11 |
| Rebounds Per Game | 5.8 |
| Steals Per Game | 2.0 |
Defensive Impact
On defense, Cooper brings a combination of energy and anticipation that disrupts opponents. She leads in steals with a quick first step, reading passes and attacking passing lanes aggressively. Averaging about 2 steals per game, she consistently creates fast-break opportunities for Tennessee.
Her 6-foot frame lets her rebound well for a guard, with a personal best of 11 rebounds in one game and nearly 6 rebounds per contest on the season. Cooper frequently guards some of the top scorers in the SEC, staying disciplined without fouling. Her defensive prowess makes her a likely name to watch for the 2026 draft, as she impacts games on both sides of the ball.
For more details on Talaysia Cooper’s statistics, see the official Tennessee Athletics page.
2024–2025 Season Highlights With Lady Vols
Talaysia Cooper built a standout season for Tennessee, delivering consistent scoring and defensive play. Her efforts drew national attention and played a key role in the Lady Vols’ performances against top teams in the SEC and NCAA tournaments.
Notable Games and Performances
Cooper’s scoring power stood out in several major games. In a non-conference face-off with Liberty, she set a season high, dropping 33 points as the Lady Vols scored 109 in a convincing win. Against Florida State, Cooper again led her team, finishing with 22 points in a tightly contested matchup.
In SEC play, Cooper’s 27-point performance was central to lifting Tennessee to a road win over Missouri. She showed an ability to take over late in games and was especially effective on both ends of the court. Her steals average of 3.1 per game not only ranked first in the SEC but also placed her in the national top 10 in that category, reflecting her strong two-way impact.
| Game | Points | Steals | Rebounds | Team Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| vs. Liberty | 33 | 4 | 7 | Win (109-93) |
| vs. Florida State | 22 | 3 | 6 | Win |
| at Missouri | 27 | 5 | 8 | Win (76-71) |
SEC and NCAA Tournament Impact
Cooper played a major role in Tennessee’s postseason run. During the SEC tournament, her scoring and defensive presence helped the Lady Vols advance past tough rivals like Vanderbilt. Her ability to create turnovers disrupted opponents’ offenses and led to fast-break points, giving Tennessee a competitive edge.
In the NCAA tournament, Cooper’s leadership was evident. She played crucial minutes against higher-seeded teams, including a memorable game versus Iowa. Her work handling pressure, controlling tempo, and guarding elite guards made her invaluable. Cooper’s performances were key in helping Tennessee make a deep NCAA tournament run, further raising her draft stock and reputation as a clutch performer.
Achievement: All-SEC Second Team Selection
Talaysia Cooper’s strong play earned her a spot on the All-SEC Second Team for the 2024–2025 season. She led the conference in steals, averaged over 15 points per game, and contributed nearly six rebounds per contest. Coaches and media alike praised her all-around consistency and impact in both big games and routine matchups.
The All-SEC recognition highlighted Cooper’s growth as a leader and her value to the Lady Vols basketball program. With her blend of length, quickness, and court IQ, Cooper is building a strong case to be a 2026 WNBA draft pick—her versatility and proven performance in key moments make her a standout guard to watch moving forward. For more on her stats and achievements, visit her Tennessee Athletics profile.
Coaching and Team Dynamics
Talaysia Cooper’s time with the Lady Vols was shaped by two very different coaching styles. Her play reflects the changes in leadership, rotation philosophy, and team priorities.
Kellie Harper’s Influence
Under Kellie Harper, Cooper learned how to adapt to a structured system focused on half-court offense and tight player rotations. Harper emphasized ball movement and set plays, giving Cooper a clear framework to develop her guard skills. She often had to read defenses, make smart passes, and take charge late in possessions.
This meant Cooper saw regular minutes, but rarely left the floor for long. The approach stressed fundamentals, communication, and poise under pressure. Harper valued consistency over risk, which sometimes limited Cooper’s chances to show off her athleticism. Still, she learned discipline and how to make sound decisions in high-pressure SEC games.
Kim Caldwell’s Contributions
Kim Caldwell brought a major shift to the Lady Vols’ style, favoring tempo and positional flexibility.
Cooper thrived in Caldwell’s free-flowing offense, where guards are allowed to push the pace and attack in transition. Caldwell valued defense and trusted Cooper to guard top opponents while driving the offense from the perimeter.
Caldwell’s trust paid off. Cooper became one of the team’s leaders in points, steals, and rebounds. She was named to the All-SEC second team and defensive team, and recorded double-digit points in 29 games.
Caldwell’s style allowed Cooper to expand her game, making her a key asset on both sides of the floor.
Talaysia Cooper 2024-25 Key Statistics
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Points/Game | 14.2 |
| Rebounds/Game | 6.1 |
| Assists/Game | 3.8 |
| Steals/Game | 2.6 |
| Double-digit Games | 29 |
| All-SEC Honors | Second Team, Defensive Team |
Hockey-Style Substitutions and Team Strategy
Caldwell introduced a rotation inspired by hockey, where players sub in “lines” to keep everyone fresh and the tempo high.
Cooper became a lynchpin in this system, adjusting quickly to shorter playing bursts and higher defensive intensity. Lines of three or four Lady Vols rotated in and out, keeping pressure on opponents.
This approach created opportunities for Cooper to push the ball in transition and pounce on tired defenders. She fit the system well because she could keep up defensively and score off the break.
The frequent line changes spread minutes more evenly, but Cooper’s consistent output proved her value regardless of when she was on the court.
Cooper’s stats and adaptability have made her an appealing option for the 2026 WNBA Draft. Her experience with two coaching systems, her defensive prowess, and her ability to fit into a modern, up-tempo rotation show she is ready for the next level.
Personal Triumphs and Challenges
Talaysia Cooper’s basketball journey with Tennessee is marked by remarkable resilience and steady growth. Her story highlights how making it back from a serious injury and developing her game as a redshirt sophomore shaped her as a guard.
Overcoming Ankle Injury
Cooper faced a crucial setback early in her college career with a significant ankle injury. This challenge could have slowed her momentum, but instead, it became a turning point. The injury forced her to miss playing time and undergo intense rehab.
During her recovery, Cooper focused on building core strength and improving agility. Physical therapy sessions and off-court skill work helped her return with better court vision and control. Coaches and trainers often pointed to her willingness to follow a strict recovery routine.
Despite setbacks, Cooper made sure to stay involved with the team, supporting teammates from the bench and studying game film. Her positive attitude and discipline during recovery became an example for younger players. She returned to the lineup stronger, with her defense showing visible improvement and her quickness restored.
Redshirt Sophomore Season
After returning to the court as a redshirt sophomore, Cooper displayed new levels of maturity and confidence. She took on a bigger leadership role, often directing plays and holding teammates accountable during practice.
Her offensive numbers saw a sharp rise, averaging 25.5 points, 9.5 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 3.0 steals per game while shooting 55.6 percent from the field, as highlighted in the NCAA’s coverage. With a boosted stat line, she became a standout performer game after game.
Key Stats—Redshirt Sophomore Season
| Points | Rebounds | Assists | Steals | FG% |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25.5 | 9.5 | 4.0 | 3.0 | 55.6% |
Her energy, two-way play, and ability to bounce back from adversity make her a notable prospect for the 2026 draft. Teams will value her strong work ethic, versatile skill set, and the mental toughness shown throughout her journey.
Recognition and Legacy
Talaysia Cooper has made a clear impact on Tennessee’s women’s basketball program, standing out for her defensive prowess and leadership on the court. Awards and media coverage have placed her among the top guards in the nation for the 2024-25 season.
National Stage Performances
Cooper’s defensive skills have earned her a place on the Naismith Defensive Player of the Year semifinalist list. She also secured a spot on the Coaches SEC All-Defensive Team, showing her consistent ability to shut down some of the best offensive players in the SEC.
As a 6-foot guard, Cooper is known for her quick hands and strong instincts, which lead to turnovers and spark transition points for the Lady Vols. Her play is a major reason Tennessee advanced deep into the postseason, including the SEC Tournament. While she has yet to claim a Final Four or National Championship, her performances on the national stage have drawn significant attention from analysts and WNBA scouts.
Key Stats (2024-25 Season):
| Category | Stat |
|---|---|
| Points per game | 12.1 |
| Rebounds | 5.4 |
| Assists | 3.3 |
| Steals | 2.4 |
| Blocks | 1.1 |
Media and Analyst Perspectives
Cooper’s growth as a leader for the Lady Vols hasn’t gone unnoticed. Writers and analysts at outlets like Vols Wire and Yahoo Sports have pointed to her versatility and effort as reasons for her honors.
Scouts highlight her ability to guard multiple positions, her basketball IQ, and her composure in close games. Multiple media outlets place her on Wooden Award watchlists and describe her as a potential WNBA first-round pick if her development continues.
The consensus is that Cooper’s work ethic and two-way impact make her a strong candidate for the 2026 draft. Teams will look for her defensive grit, potential for growth, and experience competing at a high level.
Rules and Eligibility
Talaysia Cooper’s journey to the Tennessee Lady Vols highlights the impact of NCAA rules and transfer guidelines on a player’s path. Understanding these rules gives insight into why talented athletes might sit out or become eligible for key tournaments during their college careers.
When Talaysia Cooper entered the transfer portal, she faced strict NCAA guidelines.
Cooper left South Carolina for Tennessee but did not enter the portal before the NCAA’s cut-off for immediate eligibility. Because of this, she was required to sit out the 2023-24 season and wait for her chance to play with the Lady Vols.
The NCAA transfer rules are designed to regulate player movement and maintain competitive balance. Rules state that most student-athletes who transfer after the deadline must forfeit a year of competition. Exceptions are rare. Cooper’s case was not one of them, so she watched from the sidelines.
This “sit-out” year is challenging. Athletes can practice, train, and be with their team, but cannot play in games. Despite the setback, Cooper kept her skills sharp and remained focused on her development. With her eligibility now restored, she will have three years left to play for Tennessee, starting with the 2024-25 season as confirmed by 247 Sports.
Tournament Participation Guidelines
NCAA rules define when transferred players are allowed to join team activities and compete in tournaments like the SEC Tournament or NCAA Tournament.
Since Cooper had to sit out for transfer reasons, she could not participate in these events last season. Only NCAA-eligible players can be on the roster or compete during these crucial games.
A player’s eligibility status is checked before both the SEC and NCAA tournaments. Cooper’s restored eligibility as of 2024-25 clears her for tournament play, giving Tennessee a key asset on both ends of the floor.
Key Tournament Details:
- SEC Tournament: Players must be on the official, eligible team roster.
- NCAA Tournament: NCAA confirms each athlete’s eligibility in advance.
- Postseason Impact: Cooper’s presence adds depth and skill to Tennessee’s future postseason runs.
Below is a table with projected player stats based on her high school and brief college performances. These numbers highlight her potential as a standout draft pick in 2026.
| Season | GP | PPG | RPG | APG | FG% | 3P% | FT% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HS Senior | 25 | 28.0 | 12.3 | 5.9 | 52% | 34% | 79% |
| College (Partial) | 10 | 6.0 | 3.5 | 2.1 | 47% | 28% | 73% |
| Projected 2024-25 | 30 | 12.5 | 6.2 | 3.8 | 49% | 31% | 76% |
Cooper’s blend of size, vision, and athleticism makes her a top prospect for WNBA scouts. Her eligibility counts toward tournament experience, raising her profile for the 2026 draft.
With a full season ahead, she is in strong position to prove herself as an elite guard in college basketball.