In April 2025, the college basketball world was electrified by the announcement that Ta’Niya Latson, the NCAA’s leading scorer for the 2024–25 season, would be transferring from Florida State University to the University of South Carolina. Latson’s decision to join the Gamecocks under the guidance of head coach Dawn Staley has significant implications for both programs and the broader landscape of women’s college basketball.
Ta’Niya Latson’s journey to becoming the nation’s top scorer was marked by consistent excellence. In her three seasons at Florida State, she averaged 22.5 points per game, leading the NCAA in scoring during the 2024–25 season with an impressive 25.2 points per game. Her scoring prowess was complemented by averages of 4.4 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 1.8 steals per game, showcasing her all-around skills .Wikipedia+1Sportskeeda+1
Latson’s accolades include being a three-time First-Team All-ACC selection, the 2023 ACC Rookie of the Year, and earning both the USBWA and WBCA National Freshman of the Year honors in 2023. Her standout performances, such as a 39-point game against SMU, solidified her reputation as one of the most dynamic players in the country Sportskeeda.
On March 27, 2025, Latson entered the transfer portal, signaling the end of her tenure at Florida State. Just over a week later, on April 8, she announced her commitment to South Carolina, joining a program renowned for its success and competitive spirit Wikipedia.
South Carolina’s acquisition of Latson is a strategic move to bolster their offensive capabilities. With the departure of key players, including star guard Zia Cooke, the Gamecocks were in need of a scoring leader. Latson’s ability to consistently put up high point totals fills this gap and adds a new dimension to the team’s offense.
Latson’s arrival at South Carolina significantly enhances the team’s depth and scoring potential. She joins a roster that already includes standout players like Raven Johnson, a two-time NCAA champion, and Mi’Kyla Robinson, a promising guard. The addition of Latson provides the Gamecocks with a proven scorer capable of leading the offense and mentoring younger players.Sportskeeda
Head coach Dawn Staley’s track record of developing talent and fostering a winning culture makes South Carolina an ideal environment for Latson to continue her growth. Her experience and leadership will be invaluable as the Gamecocks aim to maintain their status as a powerhouse in women’s college basketball.
Latson’s transfer to South Carolina is part of a larger trend in women’s college basketball, where top-tier players are increasingly moving between programs to enhance their prospects and compete at the highest levels. This shift reflects the growing importance of the transfer portal in shaping team rosters and the landscape of college athletics.
For South Carolina, securing a player of Latson’s caliber is a testament to the program’s appeal and the effectiveness of its recruiting strategies. It also positions the Gamecocks as a formidable contender for national championships in the upcoming seasons.
With Latson joining South Carolina, the Gamecocks are poised to be a dominant force in women’s college basketball. Her scoring ability, combined with the team’s existing talent, sets the stage for an exciting and competitive season. Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching to see how Latson’s presence influences the team’s performance and their pursuit of national titles.
In summary, Ta’Niya Latson’s decision to transfer to South Carolina marks a significant development in women’s college basketball. Her exceptional scoring ability and leadership qualities will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the Gamecocks and the sport as a whole.
