LA Sparks coach Lynne Roberts believes rookie Ta'Niya Latson will exceed expectations in her first WNBA season. Latson, projected as a first-round pick, was selected in the second round, which the Sparks view as a significant opportunity.
Key points
Ta'Niya Latson was projected as a first-round pick
She was selected by the LA Sparks in the second round
Coach Lynne Roberts has high expectations for her performance
Latson's selection was seen as a significant opportunity for the Sparks
Mentioned in this story
Lynne RobertsSouth Carolina women's basketball
LA SparksTa'Niya LatsonWNBA
Why LA Sparks coach expects Ta'Niya Latson to 'surprise people' in rookie WNBA season
Latson was widely projected as a first-round pick, but in the 2026 WNBA Draft she fell to the second round, taken by the Sparks with their first selection of the night.
"We did not anticipate her to be on the board at No. 20 so we were thrilled with that," Roberts said via Zoom on May 5. "It was not a hard decision in the draft room ... we were excited, we felt like we stole one there and so our expectations are that she's going to surprise people."
South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'niya Latson (00) grabs a rebound against the UCLA Bruins in the first half during the National Championship game of the women's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center.
Q&A
Why did Ta'Niya Latson fall to the second round in the WNBA Draft?
Ta'Niya Latson was projected as a first-round pick but was overlooked by other teams, allowing the LA Sparks to select her at No. 20.
What are the expectations for Ta'Niya Latson in her rookie season?
Coach Lynne Roberts expects Latson to surprise people with her performance, given the Sparks' excitement about her selection.
Who is the coach of the LA Sparks?
The coach of the LA Sparks is Lynne Roberts.
What position does Ta'Niya Latson play?
Ta'Niya Latson plays as a guard, having previously played for South Carolina women's basketball.
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South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'Niya Latson (00) attempts a layup against the UCLA Bruins during their NCAA women's basketball national championship game at Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix on April 5, 2026.
Ta'niya Latson #00 of the South Carolina Gamecocks drives to the basket against Charlisse Leger-Walker #5 of the UCLA Bruins during the third quarter in the National Championship of the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 05, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona.
South Carolina guard Ta'Niya Latson (00) drives against Connecticut at Mortgage Matchup Center during the Women's Final Four in Phoenix on April 3, 2026.
South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'Niya Latson (00) is fouled by Connecticut Huskies guard KK Arnold (2) during their NCAA Women's Final Four semifinal game at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 3, 2026.
Ta'niya Latson #00 of the South Carolina Gamecocks shoots the ball against the UConn Huskies during the second quarter in the Final Four of the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona.
South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'niya Latson (00) talks to South Carolina Gamecocks head coach Dawn Staley Sunday, March 8, 2026, during the SEC Women's Basketball Tournament Championship game against the Texas Longhorns at Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina.
Texas Longhorns forward Justice Carlton (11) is defended by South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'niya Latson (00) Sunday, March 8, 2026, during the SEC Women's Basketball Tournament Championship game at Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina.
South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'niya Latson (00) shoots the ball Saturday, March 7, 2026, during the SEC Women's Basketball Tournament semifinals game against the Louisiana State Tigers at Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina. South Carolina Gamecocks won 83-77.
South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'niya Latson (00) is defended by Louisiana State Tigers guard Flau'jae Johnson (4) Saturday, March 7, 2026, during the SEC Women's Basketball Tournament semifinals game at Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina.
Mar 1, 2026; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'Niya Latson (00) tries to shoot a basket against Kentucky Wildcats guard Asia Boone (8) during the first quarter at Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Arden Barnes-Imagn Images
Ta'Niya Latson 00, LSU Tigers Women’s Basketball take on the South Carolina Gamecocks at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center in Baton Rouge, LA. Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026.
COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA - FEBRUARY 08: Ta'niya Latson #00 of the South Carolina Gamecocks reacts after making a shot while being fouled in the first half against the Tennessee Lady Volunteers during their game at Colonial Life Arena on February 08, 2026 in Columbia, South Carolina. (Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images)
Feb 8, 2026; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'niya Latson (00) drives around Tennessee Volunteers guard Nya Robertson (1) in the first half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images
Oklahoma's Keziah Lofton (22) drives to the basket as South Carolina 's Ta'niya Latson (00) defends of the women's college basketball game between the Oklahoma Sooners and South Carolina at the Lloyd Noble Center in Norman, Okla., Thursday Jan. 22, 2026.
BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - JANUARY 18: Ta'niya Latson #00 of the South Carolina Gamecocks drives to the basket in the third quarter against Jahcelyn Hartfield #11 of the Coppin State Eagles at Physical Education Complex on January 18, 2026 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Greg Fiume/Getty Images)
BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - JANUARY 18: Head coach Dawn Staley of the South Carolina Gamecocks talks with Ta'niya Latson #00 during the second quarter of the game against the Coppin State Eagles at Physical Education Complex on January 18, 2026 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Greg Fiume/Getty Images)
Jan 15, 2026; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'niya Latson (00) and guard Raven Johnson (25) celebrate a play against the Texas Longhorns in the second half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images
Jan 15, 2026; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'niya Latson (00) shoots over Texas Longhorns guard Jordan Lee (7) in the first half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images
COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA - JANUARY 15: Ta'niya Latson #00 of the South Carolina Gamecocks drives to the basket while guarded by Jordan Lee #7 of the Texas Longhorns in the first half during their game at Colonial Life Arena on January 15, 2026 in Columbia, South Carolina. (Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images)
Jan 11, 2026; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'niya Latson (00) drives past Georgia Bulldogs guard Dani Carnegie (3) in the first half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images
Jan 11, 2026; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'niya Latson (00) celebrates a attempts a three point basket against the Georgia Bulldogs in the first half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images
Jan 11, 2026; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'niya Latson (00) and Georgia Bulldogs forward Zhen Craft (8) battle for the ball in the second half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images
Dec 28, 2025; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'Niya Latson (00) drives past Providence Friars guard Orlagh Gormley (3) in the first half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images
Dec 28, 2025; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks head coach Dawn Staley checks on injured guard Ta'Niya Latson (00) against the Providence Friars in the first half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images
COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA - DECEMBER 14: Ta'Niya Latson #00 of the South Carolina Gamecocks shoots the ball against Shayla Smith #24 of the Penn State Nittany Lions during the fourth quarter of the NCAA women's basketball game at Colonial Life Arena on December 14, 2025 in Columbia, South Carolina. (Photo by Sean Rayford/Getty Images)
COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA - DECEMBER 14: Ta'Niya Latson #00 of the South Carolina Gamecocks dribbles the ball against Kiyomi McMiller #23 of the Penn State Nittany Lions during the second quarter of the NCAA women's basketball game at Colonial Life Arena on December 14, 2025 in Columbia, South Carolina. (Photo by Sean Rayford/Getty Images)
Dec 7, 2025; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'Niya Latson (00) drives around North Carolina Central Eagles guard Najah Lane (23) in the first half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images
Dec 4, 2025; Louisville, Kentucky, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'Niya Latson (00) drives to the basket against Louisville Cardinals forward Laura Ziegler (0) and guard Skylar Jones (23) during the second half at KFC Yum! Center. South Carolina defeated Louisville 79-77. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Rhodes-Imagn Images
Dec 4, 2025; Louisville, Kentucky, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'Niya Latson (00) shoots against Louisville Cardinals forward Elif Istanbulluoglu (11) during the second half at KFC Yum! Center. South Carolina defeated Louisville 79-77. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Rhodes-Imagn Images
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - NOVEMBER 27: Ta'Niya Latson #00 of the South Carolina Gamecocks shoots against Jordan Lee #7 of the Texas Longhorns in the first half of the championship game of the 2025 Players Era Championship basketball tournament at Michelob ULTRA Arena on November 27, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Candice Ward/Getty Images)
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - NOVEMBER 27: Ta'Niya Latson #00 of the South Carolina Gamecocks drives past Jordan Lee #7 of the Texas Longhorns in the first half of the championship game of the 2025 Players Era Championship basketball tournament at Michelob ULTRA Arena on November 27, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Candice Ward/Getty Images)
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - NOVEMBER 26: Ta'Niya Latson #00 of the South Carolina Gamecocks drives against Madina Okot #11 of the South Carolina Gamecocks, Arianna Roberson #21 and Jadyn Donovan #2 of the Duke Blue Devils while during the third quarter of a Players Era Championship basketball tournament game at Michelob ULTRA Arena on November 26, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ian Maule/Getty Images)
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - NOVEMBER 26: Ta'Niya Latson #00 of the South Carolina Gamecocks shoots against Jadyn Donovan #2 of the Duke Blue Devils during the third quarter of a Players Era Championship basketball tournament game at Michelob ULTRA Arena on November 26, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ian Maule/Getty Images)
Nov 23, 2025; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'Niya Latson (00) reacts after making a three point basket against the Queens Royals in the first half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images
Nov 23, 2025; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks head coach Dawn Staley speaks with guard Ta’Niya Latson (00) against the Queens Royals in the second half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images
Nov 19, 2025; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'Niya Latson (00) attempts to drive by Winthrop Eagles guard Madison Ruff (3) in the first half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 15: Ta'Niya Latson #00 of the South Carolina Gamecocks takes a shot against Jazzy Davidson #9 of the USC Trojans during the second half at Crypto.com Arena on November 15, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA - NOVEMBER 11: Ta'Niya Latson #00 of the South Carolina Gamecocks dribbles the ball against Mia Moore #12 of the Clemson Tigers during the first quarter of an NCAA women's basketball game at Colonial Life Arena on November 11, 2025 in Columbia, South Carolina. (Photo by Sean Rayford/Getty Images)
Nov 11, 2025; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'Niya Latson (00) looks to drive around Clemson Tigers guard Taylor Johnson-Matthews (10) in the first half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images
Nov 11, 2025; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'Niya Latson (00) drives around Clemson Tigers guard Mia Moore (12) in the first half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images
Nov 11, 2025; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'Niya Latson (00) shoots over Clemson Tigers forward Raven Thompson (32) in the first half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images
COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA - NOVEMBER 11: Ta'Niya Latson #00 of the South Carolina Gamecocks drives to the hoop against Mia Moore #12 of the Clemson Tigers during the first quarter of an NCAA women's basketball game at Colonial Life Arena on November 11, 2025 in Columbia, South Carolina. (Photo by Sean Rayford/Getty Images)
COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA - NOVEMBER 11: Rachael Rose, center, of the Clemson Tigers drives to the hoop against Adhel Tac #15 and Ta'Niya Latson #00 of the South Carolina Gamecocks during the second quarter of an NCAA women's basketball game at Colonial Life Arena on November 11, 2025 in Columbia, South Carolina. (Photo by Sean Rayford/Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GEORGIA - OCTOBER 30: Ta'Niya Latson #00 of the South Carolina Gamecocks drives against the North Carolina Tar Heels during the third quarter of The Bad Boy Mowers Series between the North Carolina Tar Heels and South Carolina Gamecocks at State Farm Arena on October 30, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GEORGIA - OCTOBER 30: Ta'Niya Latson #00 of the South Carolina Gamecocks drives against Ciera Toomey #21 of the North Carolina Tar Heels during the fourth quarter of The Bad Boy Mowers Series between the North Carolina Tar Heels and South Carolina Gamecocks at State Farm Arena on October 30, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
Oct 30, 2025; Atlanta, GA, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'Niya Latson (00) shoots the ball against North Carolina Tar Heels guard Taliyah Henderson (3) during the fourth quarter at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images
Oct 30, 2025; Atlanta, GA, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'Niya Latson (00) dribbles the ball against North Carolina Tar Heels guard Lanie Grant (0) during the first quarter at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images
ATLANTA, GEORGIA - OCTOBER 30: Ta'Niya Latson #00 of the South Carolina Gamecocks reacts after a basket against Nyla Harris #2 of the North Carolina Tar Heels during the first quarter of The Bad Boy Mowers Series between the North Carolina Tar Heels and South Carolina Gamecocks at State Farm Arena on October 30, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
Oct 30, 2025; Atlanta, GA, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'Niya Latson (00) before the game against the North Carolina Tar Heels at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images
Oct 30, 2025; Atlanta, GA, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'Niya Latson (00) and center Madina Okot (11) shake hands before the game against the North Carolina Tar Heels at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'niya Latson (00) grabs a rebound against the UCLA Bruins in the first half during the National Championship game of the women's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center.
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'niya Latson (00) grabs a rebound against the UCLA Bruins in the first half during the National Championship game of the women's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center.
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'Niya Latson (00) attempts a layup against the UCLA Bruins during their NCAA women's basketball national championship game at Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix on April 5, 2026.
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
Ta'niya Latson #00 of the South Carolina Gamecocks drives to the basket against Charlisse Leger-Walker #5 of the UCLA Bruins during the third quarter in the National Championship of the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 05, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona.
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
South Carolina guard Ta'Niya Latson (00) drives against Connecticut at Mortgage Matchup Center during the Women's Final Four in Phoenix on April 3, 2026.
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'Niya Latson (00) is fouled by Connecticut Huskies guard KK Arnold (2) during their NCAA Women's Final Four semifinal game at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 3, 2026.
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
Ta'niya Latson #00 of the South Carolina Gamecocks shoots the ball against the UConn Huskies during the second quarter in the Final Four of the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona.
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'niya Latson (00) talks to South Carolina Gamecocks head coach Dawn Staley Sunday, March 8, 2026, during the SEC Women's Basketball Tournament Championship game against the Texas Longhorns at Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina.
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
Texas Longhorns forward Justice Carlton (11) is defended by South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'niya Latson (00) Sunday, March 8, 2026, during the SEC Women's Basketball Tournament Championship game at Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina.
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'niya Latson (00) shoots the ball Saturday, March 7, 2026, during the SEC Women's Basketball Tournament semifinals game against the Louisiana State Tigers at Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina. South Carolina Gamecocks won 83-77.
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'niya Latson (00) is defended by Louisiana State Tigers guard Flau'jae Johnson (4) Saturday, March 7, 2026, during the SEC Women's Basketball Tournament semifinals game at Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina.
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
Mar 1, 2026; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'Niya Latson (00) tries to shoot a basket against Kentucky Wildcats guard Asia Boone (8) during the first quarter at Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Arden Barnes-Imagn Images
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
Ta'Niya Latson 00, LSU Tigers Women’s Basketball take on the South Carolina Gamecocks at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center in Baton Rouge, LA. Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026.
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA - FEBRUARY 08: Ta'niya Latson #00 of the South Carolina Gamecocks reacts after making a shot while being fouled in the first half against the Tennessee Lady Volunteers during their game at Colonial Life Arena on February 08, 2026 in Columbia, South Carolina. (Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images)
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
Feb 8, 2026; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'niya Latson (00) drives around Tennessee Volunteers guard Nya Robertson (1) in the first half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
Oklahoma's Keziah Lofton (22) drives to the basket as South Carolina 's Ta'niya Latson (00) defends of the women's college basketball game between the Oklahoma Sooners and South Carolina at the Lloyd Noble Center in Norman, Okla., Thursday Jan. 22, 2026.
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - JANUARY 18: Ta'niya Latson #00 of the South Carolina Gamecocks drives to the basket in the third quarter against Jahcelyn Hartfield #11 of the Coppin State Eagles at Physical Education Complex on January 18, 2026 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Greg Fiume/Getty Images)
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - JANUARY 18: Head coach Dawn Staley of the South Carolina Gamecocks talks with Ta'niya Latson #00 during the second quarter of the game against the Coppin State Eagles at Physical Education Complex on January 18, 2026 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Greg Fiume/Getty Images)
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
Jan 15, 2026; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'niya Latson (00) and guard Raven Johnson (25) celebrate a play against the Texas Longhorns in the second half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
Jan 15, 2026; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'niya Latson (00) shoots over Texas Longhorns guard Jordan Lee (7) in the first half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA - JANUARY 15: Ta'niya Latson #00 of the South Carolina Gamecocks drives to the basket while guarded by Jordan Lee #7 of the Texas Longhorns in the first half during their game at Colonial Life Arena on January 15, 2026 in Columbia, South Carolina. (Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images)
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
Jan 11, 2026; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'niya Latson (00) drives past Georgia Bulldogs guard Dani Carnegie (3) in the first half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
Jan 11, 2026; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'niya Latson (00) celebrates a attempts a three point basket against the Georgia Bulldogs in the first half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
Jan 11, 2026; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'niya Latson (00) and Georgia Bulldogs forward Zhen Craft (8) battle for the ball in the second half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
Dec 28, 2025; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'Niya Latson (00) drives past Providence Friars guard Orlagh Gormley (3) in the first half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
Dec 28, 2025; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks head coach Dawn Staley checks on injured guard Ta'Niya Latson (00) against the Providence Friars in the first half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA - DECEMBER 14: Ta'Niya Latson #00 of the South Carolina Gamecocks shoots the ball against Shayla Smith #24 of the Penn State Nittany Lions during the fourth quarter of the NCAA women's basketball game at Colonial Life Arena on December 14, 2025 in Columbia, South Carolina. (Photo by Sean Rayford/Getty Images)
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA - DECEMBER 14: Ta'Niya Latson #00 of the South Carolina Gamecocks dribbles the ball against Kiyomi McMiller #23 of the Penn State Nittany Lions during the second quarter of the NCAA women's basketball game at Colonial Life Arena on December 14, 2025 in Columbia, South Carolina. (Photo by Sean Rayford/Getty Images)
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
Dec 7, 2025; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'Niya Latson (00) drives around North Carolina Central Eagles guard Najah Lane (23) in the first half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
Dec 4, 2025; Louisville, Kentucky, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'Niya Latson (00) drives to the basket against Louisville Cardinals forward Laura Ziegler (0) and guard Skylar Jones (23) during the second half at KFC Yum! Center. South Carolina defeated Louisville 79-77. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Rhodes-Imagn Images
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
Dec 4, 2025; Louisville, Kentucky, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'Niya Latson (00) shoots against Louisville Cardinals forward Elif Istanbulluoglu (11) during the second half at KFC Yum! Center. South Carolina defeated Louisville 79-77. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Rhodes-Imagn Images
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - NOVEMBER 27: Ta'Niya Latson #00 of the South Carolina Gamecocks shoots against Jordan Lee #7 of the Texas Longhorns in the first half of the championship game of the 2025 Players Era Championship basketball tournament at Michelob ULTRA Arena on November 27, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Candice Ward/Getty Images)
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - NOVEMBER 27: Ta'Niya Latson #00 of the South Carolina Gamecocks drives past Jordan Lee #7 of the Texas Longhorns in the first half of the championship game of the 2025 Players Era Championship basketball tournament at Michelob ULTRA Arena on November 27, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Candice Ward/Getty Images)
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - NOVEMBER 26: Ta'Niya Latson #00 of the South Carolina Gamecocks drives against Madina Okot #11 of the South Carolina Gamecocks, Arianna Roberson #21 and Jadyn Donovan #2 of the Duke Blue Devils while during the third quarter of a Players Era Championship basketball tournament game at Michelob ULTRA Arena on November 26, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ian Maule/Getty Images)
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - NOVEMBER 26: Ta'Niya Latson #00 of the South Carolina Gamecocks shoots against Jadyn Donovan #2 of the Duke Blue Devils during the third quarter of a Players Era Championship basketball tournament game at Michelob ULTRA Arena on November 26, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ian Maule/Getty Images)
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
Nov 23, 2025; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'Niya Latson (00) reacts after making a three point basket against the Queens Royals in the first half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
Nov 23, 2025; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks head coach Dawn Staley speaks with guard Ta’Niya Latson (00) against the Queens Royals in the second half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
Nov 19, 2025; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'Niya Latson (00) attempts to drive by Winthrop Eagles guard Madison Ruff (3) in the first half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 15: Ta'Niya Latson #00 of the South Carolina Gamecocks takes a shot against Jazzy Davidson #9 of the USC Trojans during the second half at Crypto.com Arena on November 15, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA - NOVEMBER 11: Ta'Niya Latson #00 of the South Carolina Gamecocks dribbles the ball against Mia Moore #12 of the Clemson Tigers during the first quarter of an NCAA women's basketball game at Colonial Life Arena on November 11, 2025 in Columbia, South Carolina. (Photo by Sean Rayford/Getty Images)
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
Nov 11, 2025; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'Niya Latson (00) looks to drive around Clemson Tigers guard Taylor Johnson-Matthews (10) in the first half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
Nov 11, 2025; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'Niya Latson (00) drives around Clemson Tigers guard Mia Moore (12) in the first half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
Nov 11, 2025; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'Niya Latson (00) shoots over Clemson Tigers forward Raven Thompson (32) in the first half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA - NOVEMBER 11: Ta'Niya Latson #00 of the South Carolina Gamecocks drives to the hoop against Mia Moore #12 of the Clemson Tigers during the first quarter of an NCAA women's basketball game at Colonial Life Arena on November 11, 2025 in Columbia, South Carolina. (Photo by Sean Rayford/Getty Images)
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA - NOVEMBER 11: Rachael Rose, center, of the Clemson Tigers drives to the hoop against Adhel Tac #15 and Ta'Niya Latson #00 of the South Carolina Gamecocks during the second quarter of an NCAA women's basketball game at Colonial Life Arena on November 11, 2025 in Columbia, South Carolina. (Photo by Sean Rayford/Getty Images)
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
ATLANTA, GEORGIA - OCTOBER 30: Ta'Niya Latson #00 of the South Carolina Gamecocks drives against the North Carolina Tar Heels during the third quarter of The Bad Boy Mowers Series between the North Carolina Tar Heels and South Carolina Gamecocks at State Farm Arena on October 30, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
ATLANTA, GEORGIA - OCTOBER 30: Ta'Niya Latson #00 of the South Carolina Gamecocks drives against Ciera Toomey #21 of the North Carolina Tar Heels during the fourth quarter of The Bad Boy Mowers Series between the North Carolina Tar Heels and South Carolina Gamecocks at State Farm Arena on October 30, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
Oct 30, 2025; Atlanta, GA, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'Niya Latson (00) shoots the ball against North Carolina Tar Heels guard Taliyah Henderson (3) during the fourth quarter at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
Oct 30, 2025; Atlanta, GA, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'Niya Latson (00) dribbles the ball against North Carolina Tar Heels guard Lanie Grant (0) during the first quarter at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
ATLANTA, GEORGIA - OCTOBER 30: Ta'Niya Latson #00 of the South Carolina Gamecocks reacts after a basket against Nyla Harris #2 of the North Carolina Tar Heels during the first quarter of The Bad Boy Mowers Series between the North Carolina Tar Heels and South Carolina Gamecocks at State Farm Arena on October 30, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
Oct 30, 2025; Atlanta, GA, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'Niya Latson (00) before the game against the North Carolina Tar Heels at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images
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Ta'Niya Latson, South Carolina women's basketball guard for Gamecocks, coach Dawn Staley
Oct 30, 2025; Atlanta, GA, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta'Niya Latson (00) and center Madina Okot (11) shake hands before the game against the North Carolina Tar Heels at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images
Latson, a 5-foot-8 guard played, one season with coach Dawn Staley after playing three for Florida State. She averaged 14.1 points per game for the Gamecocks.
She scored seven points with six assists, five rebounds and a block in her WNBA preseason debut against Nigeria on April 25. She followed it up with seven more points, two assists and one rebound against the Portland Fire on May 3.
"Ta'Niya's been good," Roberts said. "For a rookie in this league, the hardest position is that lead guard. She can play the one, she can play the two, she can bring it up, she can fill a wing so not only are you learning two spots but you're also having to learn the point guard spot and that's a learning curve. She's done a really good job with it."
Roberts added that Latson's work ethic and coachability are good, and that she wants to learn.
The 30th WNBA season begins May 8, which means rosters have to be finalized by May 7. The Sparks open the 2026 season against the Las Vegas Aces on May 10. The Aces are the defending champions, led by South Carolina great and four-time WNBA MVP A'ja Wilson.
"Ta'Niya, what I love about her is she has the ability to really put pressure at the rim," Roberts said. "She's fearless getting to the bucket, her first step is as quick as anybody's and so now it just becomes working on her decision-making ... she's been good defensively."
The Sparks drafted Chance Gray from Ohio State and Amelia Hassett from Kentucky after Latson. Hassett, a guard, was waived on April 28. Two more guards - Sevgi Uzun and Julie Vanloo - were waived May 5. Under the new CBA, teams can have 12 active players and two developmental (14 total) per roster.
"I anticipate (Latson) to play, be in the rotation," Roberts said. "I think for us to be at our best, we need that. She's got to continue to work, stay hungry and learn but I've been very impressed with her readiness since she got here."
Lulu Kesin covers South Carolina athletics for The Greenville News and the USA TODAY Network. Email her at LKesin@usatodayco.com. Follow her on X@Lulukesin and Bluesky@bylulukesin.bsky.social
