Dawn Staley makes bold claim about newest South Carolina Gamecocks recruit

Dawn Staley and the South Carolina Gamecocks might be losing MiLaysia Fulwiley, but the team seems pretty thrilled about picking up FSU transfer Ta’Niya Latson.

The team announced Latson’s transfer on April 16, and in a press release shared that day Staley had nothing but praise for the team’s newest recruit.

“Ta’Niya has established herself in the college women’s game, and her accomplishments speak for themselves,” Staley said in the release. “But, the beauty of her game is not just her ability to score. She has another superpower in her ability to set her teammates up to score, and that’s just a dangerous combination for opposing teams. Ta’Niya is an incredible leader and more importantly a fierce competitor. We’re honored to be part of her journey.”

Latson enjoyed a successful career at FSU, where she was an honorable mention All-American for three seasons and earned First-Team All-ACC recognition each season as well.

Perhaps even more impressively, Latson led the country in shooting during the 2024-25 season with 25.1 points per game and became the third player in the history of the ACC to hit 2,000 career points.

Fulwiley officially entered the transfer portal on Thursday, April 17. “I want to begin by thanking my hometown of Columbia, South Carolina,” she wrote in a post shared on Instagram. “Without my village, I wouldn’t be where I am today, chasing my dreams. Thank you to Coach (Dawn) Staley, the entire South Carolina staff and my teammates for the unforgettable memories we’ve created together. Most importantly, thank you to the FAMS (nickname for fans of the team), for embracing me and supporting me over the past two years.”

“After thoughtful consideration, I’ve decided to enter the transfer portal. I’m excited for what’s next and grateful for all the continued love and support,” Latson added.