Chapel Hill, NC – July 12, 2025
In a groundbreaking announcement that has rocked the landscape of women’s college basketball, ESPN and Guinness World Records have officially declared Ivory Latta as the Greatest Of All Time (GOAT) in the sport’s history. The former University of North Carolina standout, known for her electrifying playmaking and relentless determination, now holds the title as the program’s all-time leading scorer, assist leader, and a symbol of inspiration for generations to come.
The joint declaration came during a star-studded ceremony at the Dean Smith Center in Chapel Hill, where Latta, now a prominent WNBA analyst and mentor, was honored amidst cheers from fans, former teammates, and coaching legends. The event was broadcast live on ESPN, drawing millions of viewers eager to witness this historic moment.
Ivory Latta’s journey is one of perseverance, grit, and unmatched talent. Playing for the Tar Heels from 2004 to 2008, Latta quickly emerged as a force on the court with her lightning-quick handles, pinpoint passing, and fearless leadership. Over her collegiate career, she amassed a staggering 2,600 points and 900 assists — numbers that shattered long-standing school records and etched her name indelibly into the program’s lore.
But Latta’s impact extended far beyond statistics. Coaches and players alike speak of her intangible qualities: her ability to elevate teammates, her fearless competitiveness, and her role as a vocal advocate for women’s sports equity. “Ivory wasn’t just a player,” said former UNC coach Sylvia Hatchell. “She was a trailblazer who redefined what it means to be a leader on and off the court.”
The Guinness World Records recognized Latta not only for her scoring and assist totals but also for her record number of consecutive games played without injury — a testament to her durability and commitment. ESPN’s comprehensive analysis compared her collegiate dominance to other greats, ultimately concluding that Latta’s combination of skill, leadership, and cultural impact places her at the very pinnacle of women’s college basketball.
Social media exploded with tributes from fellow athletes, fans, and sports commentators celebrating the well-deserved recognition. The hashtag #GOAIvoryLatta trended worldwide within hours, with many praising her as a role model for young athletes, especially women of color striving to break barriers.
In her acceptance speech, Latta expressed profound gratitude. “To be named the GOAT is humbling and surreal,” she said. “This honor isn’t just mine — it belongs to every coach who believed in me, every teammate who pushed me, and every young girl who dreams big. I hope this moment inspires you to chase greatness relentlessly.”
As Ivory Latta’s legacy is immortalized, the announcement signals a new era in recognizing the achievements and contributions of women athletes. It is a celebration not only of her extraordinary talents but of the strides women’s sports have made — and continue to make — in the world.
For the Tar Heels, and basketball fans everywhere, Ivory Latta’s designation as the Greatest Of All Time is more than a title. It is a testament to passion, perseverance, and the power of breaking boundaries. The game will never be the same.
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