Latson Injury Clouds No. 3 South Carolina Basketball’s SEC Opener
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A key injury has cast a shadow over the No. 3 South Carolina Gamecocks as they prepare to begin their Southeastern Conference schedule. Star transfer Let’s Latsson sustained a lower leg injury during Sunday’s 96-55 victory over Providence, raising concerns about the team’s already strained roster.
The injury occurred during the game, prompting immediate attention from team medical staff. Despite the setback, initial reports suggest a cautiously optimistic outlook. “She’s smiling,” a senior official stated immediately following the game, adding that Latsson “got treatment all through the second half.”
Transfer Star’s Impact on the Gamecocks
Latsson, a 22-year-old senior guard, arrived in South Carolina after a dominant season at Florida State, where she led all of Division I in scoring. This year, she has quickly become a vital component of the Gamecocks’ offense, averaging 16.9 points per game – second only to sophomore forward Joyce Edwards’s impressive 21.4-point average.
The extent of Latsson’s injury and the anticipated recovery timeline remain unknown. However, any absence will undoubtedly exacerbate the team’s existing injury challenges. South Carolina previously lost standout forward Chloe Kitts to a season-ending injury before the 2025/26 campaign even began, and the team has been navigating various player availability limitations throughout the month.
Roster Relief on the Horizon
Despite the current challenges, the Gamecocks are receiving positive news on the injury front. Forward Madina Okot and guard Agot Makeer have both returned from concussion protocol, significantly bolstering the team’s bench. Both returnees made an immediate impact in Sunday’s win, contributing a double-double each.
Further roster relief is expected midseason with the arrival of 18-year-old French center Alicia Tournebize. Her addition will provide much-needed depth to Staley’s squad.
Gamecocks Prepare for SEC Play
The No. 3 Gamecocks will kick off their SEC schedule on Thursday, hosting unranked Alabama at 2 PM ET. The game will be broadcast live on SEC+. This matchup marks a crucial start to conference play for the Gamecocks, who will be looking to establish themselves as contenders in the SEC.
