Sarah Strong Dominates, Latson & Johnson Reunite for Championship Run

Sarah Strong’s Dominance Ignites Player of the Year Buzz

The debate for Player of the Year is heating up, and Sarah Strong is making an undeniable case. While some may point to strength of schedule, her sheer efficiency cannot be ignored. Strong is currently shooting an astounding 60% from the field, 40% from three-point range, and 88% from the free-throw line. This 60-40-90 stat line is a rarity not seen this century, showcasing her ability to score from anywhere on the court. Described as a “big with the skills of a guard,” Strong has been nothing short of dominant, a fact that has analysts buzzing.

Latson and Johnson: A High School Reunion for the Ages

The connection between Raven Johnson and Taniah Latson is more than just chemistry; it’s telepathy. The duo, who dominated at Westlake High School by winning three straight state championships from 2019 to 2021, have found their way back to each other. Their high school coach recalled practices where they’d execute plays in transition that seemed impossible, with Raven throwing alley-oops to Tanaya that others simply couldn’t complete. “Why do you let them do that?” onlookers would ask. The answer was simple: “Because they can.”

After high school, their paths diverged. Raven Johnson committed to South Carolina, where she’s already secured two national championships. Meanwhile, Taniah Latson took her talents to Florida State, leading Division I in scoring last season. Despite the distance, their bond remained. “We always kept in touch,” Latson stated. “I knew deep down I wanted to play with Raven again.”

When Raven entered the transfer portal, Latson saw her chance. “She’d been talking about leaving Florida State because she wanted to win the championship,” Latson recalled. “When she told me that, I was like, you know, this is the right place.” Raven, a “great recruiter” according to Latson, played a key role in convincing her former teammate. “I was like, ‘Wait your options, girl. Want to win? You better come here,'” Latson urged.

The reunion has been seamless. “She can read my mind. I can read her mind. Like I just know,” Johnson explained. “You just know.” This unspoken understanding was on full display during a recent game against Tennessee. A perfectly timed back-door cut from Raven was met with a precision pass from Latson, a play that immediately reminded them of their high school glory days. “That was one of the moments I was like, ‘Oh yeah, we were connected. I didn’t even have to say anything. She knew we were just on a string,'” Johnson reflected.

Championship Aspirations Drive the Duo

Now, with their journey culminating in Columbia, the ultimate goal is clear: a championship. “I hope that we end it in the right way, which is a ring,” Latson expressed. “So she can leave her with a championship ring. And I feel like that would be a wonderful ending.” Johnson echoed the sentiment, stating, “In college, you don’t get to play with your high school teammate. Being able to put that hat on and cut the net, that’ll be the perfect cherry on top.” The reunion of these high school phenoms with a championship on the line is the narrative fans have been waiting for.

Player of the Year Contenders Emerge

Beyond the Latson-Johnson reunion, the Player of the Year conversation features several other elite talents. Joyce Edwards of South Carolina is a strong contender, averaging 20 points per game and dominating on both ends of the floor. Analysts praise her ability to “crash the boards” and make an impact offensively and defensively, making her a true national player of the year candidate.

Lauren Betts of UCLA is also in the mix. She’s been a force in the Big Ten, becoming the first player to win both Conference Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year. Leading UCLA with 17 points and 9 rebounds per game, she anchors a defense that allows just 57 points per game, contributing to their impressive 24-game winning streak.

Other Notable Awards and Performances

The discussion also touched on other impressive performances and players:

• Best Performance of the Season: Hannah Hidalgo’s astonishing 44 points, 16 steals, and 4 assists performance was lauded as dominant on both ends of the floor, with no answer offensively or defensively.
• Best Player in a Lead Role: Michaela Blakes of Vandy was highlighted for her crucial role, leading the nation in scoring and being indispensable to her team’s success.
• Best Player in a Supporting Role: Marta Suarez of TCU earned recognition for her versatility and impact alongside Olivia Miles, contributing triple-doubles and high-scoring games.
• Best Screenplay (Drama): The viral November matchup between West Virginia and Duke, where West Virginia secured a win despite having only five players available in the second half after a scuffle, was cited for its sheer drama.
• Best Director: Coach Don Staley of South Carolina was praised for navigating a challenging season with injuries, transfers, and players taking on new roles, all while maintaining great success.
• Best Costume Design: Sydney Carter of Texas was celebrated for her impeccable style and fashion sense on the sidelines, dressing stylishly for every game.

The “Ain’t No Way” award was given to Chena for a moment that left analysts speechless, while Christine received the “Longest Pants” award for her exceptionally long trousers. Drea was recognized with the “Most Athletic Analyst” award, though she humorously declined to demonstrate.

Source: Sarah Strong's case for Player of the Year 💪 | College GameDay (YouTube)