Ta'Niya Latson, a former South Carolina women's basketball star, has landed a new opportunity with the Las Vegas Aces in the WNBA. This move comes just two days after she was waived by the Los Angeles Sparks, marking a significant shift in her professional basketball career. The 5-foot-8 guard, who was selected 20th overall in the 2026 WNBA Draft by the Sparks, struggled to find a consistent role with the team, appearing in only 10 games and notching a season-best of six points, three rebounds, and two assists. However, her potential was recognized by the Aces, who signed her to a development player contract.
Latson's journey to the WNBA began at Florida State, where she was a three-time All-ACC selection and an All-American. She led the nation in scoring with 25.2 points per game as a junior, showcasing her exceptional talent. However, her time at Florida State was marked by early exits from the NCAA Tournament, which likely influenced her decision to transfer to South Carolina.
At South Carolina, Latson reunited with her high school teammate, Raven Johnson, and played a pivotal role in the team's success. She helped the Gamecocks reach the national championship game while averaging 14.1 points and 3.6 rebounds per game and shooting a career-best 48.6% from the floor. Her individual accolades and team achievements positioned her as a first-round draft pick, but the Sparks selected her in the second round, leading to her waiver.
The Las Vegas Aces, on the other hand, have made some strategic roster changes in recent days, cutting high-scoring guard Chennedy Carter and signing Justine Pissott from the Indiana Fever. This move to sign Latson is a strategic one, as the Aces aim to strengthen their roster and improve their standing. With the team's recent changes, Latson's addition could be a significant boost to their offensive and defensive capabilities.
The Aces' next game is scheduled for Thursday night at 10 p.m. ET against the Portland Fire. This opportunity for Latson to shine with the Aces is a testament to her resilience and determination, as she navigates the challenges of professional basketball and continues to pursue her dream of success in the WNBA.
