South Carolina secured a commanding 96-55 victory over Providence, but the win was heavily overshadowed by a significant injury to star player Ta’Niya Latson. Midway through the second quarter, Latson suffered a left foot injury while attempting a transition layup. She was unable to put any weight on her foot and had to be helped to the locker room by head coach Dawn Staley and trainer Craig Oates.
Latson was outstanding before the exit, contributing 10 points and four assists while maintaining the elite form that has seen her average a career-high 17.4 points this season. The Gamecocks started the contest strongly, converting 10 of their first 11 shots, including five of six from deep, to rack up 29 points in the opening period.
However, the team shot just 41% and struggled defensively in the second quarter, allowing Providence to score 19 points on 47.4% shooting. Following halftime, South Carolina completely took over the court. They dominated the second half with a 51.4% shooting performance and a plus-11 rebounding advantage.
The defensive intensity reached a new level as they held Providence to just 21 total points and a meager 23.3% shooting percentage in the half. This resurgence allowed the Gamecocks to transform a stagnant second half into a definitive 41-point blowout.
Several players stepped up to fill the void, led by Tessa Johnson and Madina Okot, who scored 18 points each. Okot also secured 13 rebounds to record her 10th double-double of the season. The game featured a strong second-half surge from Joyce Edwards and a productive return for Agot Makeer, who tallied 10 points and a career-high nine rebounds after missing five games in concussion protocol.
Raven Johnson rounded out the effort with 10 points and six assists, ensuring the team remained steady despite the concern surrounding Latson’s health.
What Did Dawn Staley Have To Say On Ta’Niya Latson’s Injury?
Following the Gamecocks’ victory over Providence, Dawn Staley offered a cautious but hopeful update on star guard Ta’Niya Latson, who left the game with a foot injury. Staley noted that Latson was in good spirits, saying, “No. No, she’s smiling,” and confirmed that she stayed to receive treatment during the second half.
While Latson was able to walk out of the arena, Staley remained realistic about the immediate future, remarking, “Just walked out, think we’re gonna look at it tomorrow,” and noting that other players will need to step up depending on “how long she’ll be out.”
Regarding the team’s performance, Staley was critical of an “undisciplined” defensive start that allowed Providence to find success. She observed that the Gamecocks were often out of place and struggling with rotations early on, but they managed to “ride the wave,” thanks to a high-scoring offensive rhythm led by Latson and Joyce Edwards.
By the second half, the team successfully adjusted, surrendering only six points and doing “enough to open the game up” for the blowout win.
Staley also touched on the roster’s depth and future, praising Makeer’s return from concussion protocol and Chloe Kitts’ evolving leadership from the sidelines. She opined that Kitts has matured significantly, offering peer-to-peer advice.
Looking ahead, Staley shared her excitement for 6’7” French recruit Alicia Tournebize, calling her a “gem of a player” and an athletic force.
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