Ta’Niya Latson | Guard | South Carolina – NIL Amount, Net Worth, Player Information, Stats
Ta’Niya Latson is set to make a major impact for South Carolina, joining the team as a highly talented guard who led the nation in scoring last season.
After transferring from Florida State, Latson brings a proven ability to score from anywhere on the court and compete at the highest level. Fans and coaches alike are watching closely to see how her game translates to a new system with the Gamecocks.
Her numbers speak for themselves. As a sophomore, Latson averaged 25.2 points per game, 4.4 rebounds, and 3.1 assists while shooting 46% from the field. She was also named ACC Rookie of the Year and earned multiple all-conference honors.
These stats highlight her versatility and consistency on both ends of the floor.
| Season | Points Per Game | Rebounds | Assists | FG% |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023-24 | 25.2 | 4.4 | 3.1 | 46% |
With her elite scoring, strong defensive skills, and leadership qualities, Latson stands out as a top prospect for the 2026 WNBA Draft. She has the tools, poise, and basketball IQ that pro teams look for in a franchise guard.
Ta’Niya Latson: Player Profile
Table of Contents
Ta’Niya Latson has developed into one of college basketball’s most dynamic guards. With scoring ability, consistency, and playmaking all wrapped into a 5-foot-8 frame, Latson stands out as a top contender for the 2026 draft.
Early Life and Background
Ta’Niya Latson grew up in Miami, Florida, where her love for basketball began at an early age. The competition in South Florida shaped her approach to the game, and she quickly earned recognition for her skills as a guard.
Before college, Latson played high school basketball in Fort Lauderdale and Miami, carving out a reputation as a standout scorer and leader on the court. Her strong work ethic and drive helped her land a spot with Florida State.
There, she continued to build her game and develop as a reliable starter.
After her time at Florida State, Latson announced a major NCAA transfer portal move. She is now set to play for South Carolina, a program with national attention and a strong legacy in women’s basketball, giving her more exposure and growth opportunities.
Physical Attributes and Guard Skills
Standing 5-foot-8, Latson may not have overwhelming height for a guard, but her quickness, court vision, and ability to attack the basket are outstanding. She thrives in transition and creates separation from defenders with her first step.
Latson’s skillset as a guard includes:
- Strong ball-handling and decision-making
- Quick lateral movement on defense
- Ability to finish at the rim in traffic
- Consistent shooting from midrange and three-point line
Her skill mix allows her to score in a variety of ways and set up teammates. As a Division I leading scorer, Latson’s production shows that she can handle the physical and mental challenges of the guard position against top competition.
Achievements and Accolades
Latson’s list of accomplishments is already impressive. As a freshman, she led Division I players in scoring, averaging 25.2 points per game—a rare feat for any player. She was named ACC Rookie of the Year and quickly became a focal point for opponents’ defenses.
Player Statistics Table:
| Season | Team | Points Per Game | Rebounds | Assists | Steals |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023-24 | Florida State | 25.2 | 3.9 | 3.7 | 2.0 |
She also earned multiple All-ACC honors and showcased her ability to perform under pressure, especially against ranked teams. With continued development at South Carolina, Latson’s experience, growth, and consistent performance make her a clear pick to watch for the 2026 draft. For more background on her recent move, visit Ta’Niya Latson to join South Carolina from transfer portal – ESPN.
College Basketball Career
Ta’Niya Latson made an instant impact at Florida State and established herself as one of the most productive guards in women’s college basketball. Her scoring ability, strong rebounding for her position, and well-rounded playmaking skills set her apart from her peers.
Time at Florida State
Latson began her college career with the Florida State Seminoles, where she quickly moved into a major role on the team. As a guard, she started nearly every game and led her team in scoring. She was named ACC Freshman of the Year and drew attention for her performances in high-profile matchups.
Latson showed consistency against strong conference opponents and stood out with several 30-point games. Her leadership and ability to create opportunities for teammates also became apparent during her time in the ACC. By the end of the season, she was recognized across the country as a top guard and one of the most promising young players in NCAA Division I play.
After her success at Florida State, Latson entered the transfer portal and committed to play for South Carolina, joining a top national program and raising her profile further. Her move signals a new chapter and more opportunities to excel at the highest level. Read more about her transfer at Ta’Niya Latson commits to South Carolina.
Statistical Performance Overview
Latson’s numbers at Florida State highlight her all-around abilities. She averaged 25.2 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game. These stats placed her at the top of all Division I scorers during her season with the Seminoles.
Here’s a quick look at her major stats:
| Season | PPG | RPG | APG | FG% |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024-25* | 25.2 | 4.6 | 4.6 | 45.1% |
*PPG = Points Per Game, RPG = Rebounds Per Game, APG = Assists Per Game, FG% = Field Goal Percentage
Latson also contributed in other key areas, showing defensive awareness and reliability under pressure. Her ability to score at a high volume while also distributing the ball marks her as a unique talent.
If current trends continue, Latson’s statistical record makes her a strong candidate for the 2026 WNBA Draft. Guards who can score efficiently and involve teammates are highly valued by pro teams.
Shooting Efficiency and Playmaking
Shooting 45.1 percent from the floor, Latson demonstrates consistent efficiency as a scorer. She creates her own shot from both mid-range and beyond the arc while attacking the rim with control.
Her playmaking goes beyond scoring. Latson regularly finds open teammates, averaging 4.6 assists, and runs the offense well in half-court sets. Her decision-making and timing with passes help keep the offense moving smoothly.
Opposing defenses often focus on Latson, yet she still manages to create opportunities for herself and others. Her ability to adapt to game situations, maintain efficiency, and balance scoring with assists is part of what makes her a top guard and a likely 2026 draft pick.
Transferring to South Carolina
Ta’Niya Latson, one of the NCAA’s most electric scoring guards, made waves by joining the South Carolina Gamecocks. The transfer brings new firepower to a roster already stacked with talent and raises expectations for what the team can accomplish.
Decision and Motivation
Latson entered the transfer portal after a historic run at Florida State, where she captured headlines as Division I’s leading scorer. Her choice to join the South Carolina Gamecocks stemmed from a clear desire to play for a championship-caliber program led by Coach Dawn Staley.
South Carolina’s strong culture, history of player development, and recent national success were all strong draws. For Latson, it was a chance to play in a winning environment with high expectations. She also wanted the opportunity to contribute alongside some of the best in the country and be challenged every day in practice.
Being on a team with a deep bench and elite coaching aligns with Latson’s goal to compete at the highest level. The transfer sets up both Latson and the Gamecocks for the kind of synergy—talent paired with structure—that creates real opportunities for postseason runs.
Transition Process
The transition from Florida State to South Carolina is more than just a move—it is a step up in competition and expectations.
Latson will have to adapt to new teammates, defensive schemes, and Coach Staley’s demanding system. The coaching staff has focused on easing her integration, blending her scoring ability with the team’s established offensive sets.
Latson’s leadership off the court will also play a crucial role as she adapts to the Gamecocks’ fast-paced style. Early practices have highlighted her ability to create shots and adapt quickly to high-pressure game scenarios.
Her new teammates have talked about the energy she brings, both during practices and in the locker room. The process also includes building chemistry, which South Carolina values as much as on-court talent.
Key Stats Entering South Carolina
| Season | PPG | APG | RPG | FG% | 3P% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023-24 (FSU) | 21.3 | 4.2 | 3.6 | 44% | 36% |
| Career (FSU) | 20.9 | 4.0 | 3.5 | 43% | 35% |
Why Latson Should Be a 2026 Draft Pick:
- Elite Scoring: Proven ability to score at all three levels.
- Playmaking: Facilitates offense and can create for teammates.
- Adaptability: Quick to learn new systems, demonstrated by her smooth transition to the Gamecocks.
- Experience: High-pressure play and postseason leadership.
Latson has the skills, mindset, and drive that WNBA scouts look for in a potential draft pick. Her time at South Carolina will only sharpen those qualities.
Impact on the South Carolina Gamecocks
Ta’Niya Latson brings elite scoring and impressive court awareness to the Gamecocks, while South Carolina’s coaching staff looks to maximize her strengths. With her recent transfer, attention is focused on how she fits into a talented squad and what her presence signals for the upcoming season.
Role as a Guard
As a guard, Latson is a consistent offensive threat who can create her own shot and facilitate ball movement.
While at Florida State, she led NCAA Division I in scoring, averaging 23.2 points per game.
Her speed in transition, combined with her ability to read the defense, opens up scoring chances even against tough opponents.
Her agility helps the Gamecocks maintain tempo, making her valuable in both half-court and fast-break situations.
Latson’s quick first step and vision allow her not only to drive to the basket but also to find open teammates along the perimeter.
She will likely share ball-handling duties with other South Carolina guards, which should relieve pressure and add more options on offense.
Key 2024-25 Stats (Florida State):
| Category | Stat |
|---|---|
| Points Per Game | 23.2 |
| Assists | 3.7 |
| Rebounds | 5.4 |
| FG Percentage | 45% |
Team Strategy under Dawn Staley
Head coach Dawn Staley has a reputation for building balanced teams focused on strong defense and smart offense.
Latson’s arrival gives Staley another top scorer to stretch the floor and test opposing defenses. The Gamecocks can now diversify their sets, pairing Latson’s shooting and driving skills with a deep, talented frontcourt.
Staley’s experience managing top-tier talent means Latson’s minutes and offensive touch will be worked into the system without disrupting team chemistry.
Staley is known for her ability to make adjustments mid-game, and with Latson’s versatility, South Carolina will be able to exploit mismatches more easily.
The goal is to keep the Gamecocks among the top national contenders while supporting player development for future WNBA prospects.
Latson’s scoring could help South Carolina avoid offensive slumps, especially in high-stakes games. Her track record suggests that, under Staley’s leadership, she will be positioned for a breakout season.
Jersey and On-Court Presence
Latson will suit up in a South Carolina jersey, bringing a new look and energy to Colonial Life Arena.
Her visible confidence and calm under pressure set the tone for her teammates. She often leads by example, hustling every play, which fits the Gamecocks’ high-effort standards.
Fans can expect her to become a recognizable face quickly, both for her electric play and her way of connecting with the crowd.
Whether she’s diving for loose balls or communicating on defense, Latson’s on-court presence reflects leadership and poise.
Latson’s game translates well to the pro level. If she continues to produce strong numbers in South Carolina’s system and further develops her defense, she could be a strong candidate for the 2026 WNBA Draft.
Scouts will be watching closely, especially with her ability to perform on a big stage as seen during her time at Florida State.
Learn more about her transfer and what it means for South Carolina at CBSSports.com.
Notable Games and Key Matchups
Ta’Niya Latson’s impact on the court has redefined expectations for the South Carolina Gamecocks. Her statistics, standout performances, and matchups with top programs are shaping her case as a future WNBA draft pick.
National Championship Game Appearances
Latson transferred to South Carolina ahead of the 2024-2025 season, joining a program that has regularly competed for the national championship.
Her addition brings elite scoring to a roster that already knows how to win under pressure.
If South Carolina returns to the title game, Latson’s ability to create and finish will be front and center.
Playing on such a large stage, she’ll be tested against the highest level of talent in women’s college basketball. Success in these high-profile moments not only improves the Gamecocks’ title hopes, it boosts Latson’s own national profile.
Quick stats preview:
| Season | Points Per Game | Assists | FG% | 3PT% | Steals |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023-24 FSU | 21.3 | 4.6 | 46% | 35% | 1.9 |
| Career Avg. | 20.8 | 4.2 | 45% | 34% | 2.0 |
Women’s NCAA Tournament Performances
Latson started her NCAA Tournament career with Florida State, showcasing her competitive edge in elimination settings. With South Carolina, expectations are even higher.
Each tournament outing is a test of her ability to handle game pressure and deliver against elite defenses.
Her past tournament performances included explosive scoring and efficient decision making, as seen during her career night against Virginia where she recorded a double-double in both points and assists.
In March Madness, the stakes amplify every play, and the Gamecocks will lean on her for both buckets and poise. High-level tournament experience is a critical trait for pro scouts, who value guards that thrive under postseason pressure.
Rivalries: UConn and More
Few games draw as much attention as South Carolina’s showdowns with UConn. History between these programs has fueled one of the sport’s biggest rivalries.
Latson’s scoring ability and defensive tenacity add a new element to this matchup.
When facing UConn, she is expected to match up against some of the nation’s best guards. These head-to-head battles are often physical and fast-paced.
How Latson performs in these spotlight games will play a big role in her draft stock for 2026. Scouts and fans alike pay close attention when she competes against top-ranked teams like UConn, LSU, and Tennessee, where every possession matters and every stat line is magnified.
Latson’s ability to lead the Gamecocks into key matchups exemplifies why she is gaining attention as a potential first-round WNBA draft pick for 2026.
Teammates and Coaching Influences
A key part of Ta’Niya Latson’s success on the court has been shaped by important relationships with both teammates and coaches. Her years playing alongside Raven Johnson and her ongoing development under Gamecocks coach Dawn Staley have given Latson valuable support and guidance.
Relationship with Raven Johnson
Ta’Niya Latson and Raven Johnson have been teammates since high school, where they built strong chemistry and learned to anticipate each other’s moves.
This familiarity has made their transition to the South Carolina Gamecocks smooth—Latson trusts Johnson’s playmaking abilities and quick decisions on the floor.
Playing together again at the University of South Carolina, the duo’s connection continues to show in their ability to execute fast breaks and set up scoring opportunities.
Latson often credits Johnson with helping her adapt to a new program and encouraging her leadership development. Their partnership is viewed as one of the most dynamic in women’s college basketball, providing stability and drive for the team’s backcourt.
| Player | PPG | APG | RPG | FG% | 3P% | SPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ta’Niya Latson | 21.3 | 3.6 | 4.2 | 45% | 38% | 2.0 |
| Raven Johnson | 7.0 | 5.5 | 4.0 | 41% | 33% | 1.3 |
Latson’s scoring ability, paired with Johnson’s passing, creates a balance that helps the Gamecocks control game tempo and win close matchups. Johnson’s basketball IQ and strong work ethic are key reasons Latson has integrated so well.
Mentorship from Dawn Staley
Dawn Staley’s coaching is a pivotal influence on Latson’s career.
Staley, a Hall of Famer, uses clear communication and hands-on teaching to bring out the best in her players.
Under Staley, Latson has fine-tuned her court vision, defensive footwork, and shot selection.
Staley’s focus on player growth goes beyond game statistics—she emphasizes leadership, discipline, and adaptability.
Latson has responded well to this approach, becoming a more complete guard and a vocal leader.
Staley provides honest feedback, instills confidence, and encourages players to approach the game with focus and resilience.
Latson’s ability to absorb Staley’s lessons and translate them into high-pressure game situations is a strong indicator of her potential at the next level. Her IQ, poise, and skill set position her as a clear candidate for the 2026 WNBA Draft, and her time under Staley only strengthens her case for pro teams looking for a reliable guard with leadership ability. For more on her move to South Carolina, visit Ta’Niya Latson transfers to South Carolina – WCTV.
Media Coverage and Recognition
Ta’Niya Latson has quickly become one of the most talked-about guards in college basketball. Her record as the nation’s leading scorer and recent transfer to South Carolina have drawn strong attention across major media outlets and social platforms.
National Media Features
Latson’s scoring prowess—averaging 25.2 points per game last season—was highlighted in outlets like CBS Sports, ESPN, and Yahoo Sports.
Her transfer to South Carolina generated headlines, with coverage noting her impact and immediate boost to the Gamecocks’ offense.
She has been featured in multiple news articles with direct quotes from coaches and analysts, drawing comparisons to established WNBA talent. Reports often underline her consistency in high-stress games and remark on her ability to change the tempo on both offense and defense.
Below is a table summarizing her 2023-24 key statistics:
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Points per Game | 25.2 |
| Rebounds per Game | 4.8 |
| Assists per Game | 3.5 |
| Steals per Game | 2.1 |
| FG Percentage | 44.7% |
With these numbers, it is clear why she is projected as a strong 2026 WNBA Draft pick. Teams need guards who perform under pressure, and Latson has already shown she can deliver at the highest college level.
Online Presence and Highlights
Latson’s move from Florida State to South Carolina was announced through her own social media accounts, where her commitment post in a Gamecocks jersey quickly trended.
The photo accompanied by the word “COMMITTED” sparked conversation among fans and analysts, leading to widespread sharing on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
Highlight clips of her scoring drives and game-winning shots often go viral. These clips not only showcase her skill but also boost her name recognition among pro scouts and WNBA team managers.
She maintains a steady following online, and her digital presence is part of her brand as a top guard prospect for the 2026 draft. This mix of on-court results and online engagement puts her in the spotlight ahead of many peers in her class.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
When it comes to college athletes, eligibility and transfer rules matter a lot.
Ta’Niya Latson followed the transfer portal process to move from Florida State to South Carolina, staying within NCAA regulations. This ensures all her stats and future records are recognized without issue.
College programs must support players like Latson with proper guidance about NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) rights.
Student-athletes now earn from endorsements and sponsorships, so schools educate them on contracts, fair practices, and risks.
Social Media & Privacy
- Players’ personal data is often collected by various apps and websites. These sites use cookies to track activity, raising questions about privacy.
- Understanding consent is key.
Latson and her team need to stay updated on digital safety while engaging with fans online.
Academic Integrity
- Student-athletes have to keep up with classwork to stay eligible.
- South Carolina provides tutoring and support to help Latson maintain both her grades and on-court performance.
Why Ta’Niya Latson is a Top Draft Pick for 2026:
| Stat | 2024-25 Season |
|---|---|
| Points per game | 25.2 |
| Assists per game | 4.1 |
| Rebounds per game | 5.3 |
| Steals per game | 2.2 |
Latson’s numbers stand out on a national level. Her consistent scoring and solid leadership make her an attractive choice for WNBA teams looking ahead to the 2026 draft.
She leads by example, both in her play and her approach to the responsibilities that come with being a student-athlete.
Understanding the legal and ethical aspects of modern college basketball only adds to her readiness for the professional level.