Hold onto your seats, basketball fans, because the future of women’s hoops is looking brighter than ever—and South Carolina is at the heart of it! Three Gamecocks stars are projected to dominate the 2026 WNBA Draft first round, according to Fiifi Frimpong’s latest mock draft for the New York Daily News. But here’s where it gets even more exciting: these players aren’t just making the cut—they’re poised to shake up the league. Let’s dive into the details and explore why this could be a game-changing moment for the WNBA.
First up is Ta’Niya Latson, the dynamic guard who’s been lighting up scoreboards despite battling an ankle injury. Currently averaging 16.9 points, 4.0 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game, Latson is a no-brainer for the first round. Frimpong predicts she’ll land with the expansion Toronto Tempo, a team that could desperately use her scoring prowess. But here’s the twist: Latson’s injury could impact her senior season and draft stock. Will it derail her momentum, or will her proven track record—including a Division I-leading 25.2 points per game last season at Florida State—seal her spot? And this is the part most people miss: the Tempo and Portland Fire will flip a coin for the sixth and seventh picks. Why not take a proven scorer like Latson, especially when both teams are starting from scratch?
Next is Madina Okot, the 6-foot-6 center who’s been a force in the paint. Averaging 15.8 points and a staggering 11.2 rebounds per game, Okot is a defensive anchor with lane-clogging length and 1.5 blocks per game. Frimpong sees her joining the Indiana Fever, where she’d team up with fellow Gamecock stars Aliyah Boston and Bree Hall. But here’s the controversial part: the WNBA is shifting away from traditional post play, yet Okot’s talent is undeniable. Can she adapt to the league’s evolving style, or will her dominance in college translate directly to the pros? It’s a question that’s sparking debates among fans and analysts alike.
Last but certainly not least is Raven Johnson, the redshirt senior having a career year. With averages of 9.0 points, 6.0 assists, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.9 steals per game, Johnson is a two-way threat who could thrive under Atlanta Dream head coach Karl Smesko. If drafted by her hometown team, she’d reunite with former USC teammate Te-Hina Paopao and all-star Allisha Gray. But here’s the catch: the Dream, a playoff team, might not have many minutes to spare for a rookie. Still, Johnson’s defensive grit and championship experience (two NCAA titles under Dawn Staley) could earn her a spot in the rotation. Is she the missing piece Atlanta needs to take the next step?
But here’s the real question: Are these projections a slam dunk, or could unexpected twists shake up the draft? Latson’s injury, Okot’s fit in a modern WNBA, and Johnson’s role on a playoff team are all factors that could shift the narrative. What do you think? Are these Gamecocks destined for greatness, or is there a sleeper pick we’re overlooking? Let’s hear your take in the comments—this conversation is just heating up!
