While the college basketball transfer portal is officially closed and rosters are beginning to take shape, the South Carolina Gamecocks women's basketball team have emerged as one of the biggest winners in the offseason. Dawn Staley aimed to strategically fill key gaps in the roster and fared well in her quest to solidify the Gamecocks' place as a national powerhouse.
Ranked No. 3 on ESPN's list of transfer portal wins, South Carolina landed some elite talent that complements their returning core.
Replacing a star
Yes, the loss of MiLaysia Fulwiley to LSU was a gut punch for South Carolina fans, but the Gamecocks haven't dwelled on the departure. Instead, they are focused on what the team has gained: Ta'Niya Latson. She is a powerhouse from Florida State who led the nation in scoring points last season. Latson is already regarded as the most productive guard in the Staley era of basketball.
Defending the paint
The Gamecocks also added Madina Okot, a 6-foot-6 center from Mississippi State who showed tremendous power in her freshman year. Okot brings lots of rim protection and physicality. With her anchoring the paint, the Gamecocks will regain some defensive edge for the upcoming season.
South Carolina's 2025-26 outlook
With the additions of Latson and Okot, South Carolina is positioning itself for another Final Four run, with hopes to claim their third national title under head coach Dawn Staley.