The South Carolina women’s basketball team is gearing up for the season without a crucial player.
Ashlyn Watkins shared on Instagram that she plans to take a break and will return for the 2026-27 season. Although she had limited playing time last year due to a season-ending injury and a suspension, she was instrumental in the 2024 National Championship team, averaging 9.2 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks as a sophomore.
In her post, Watkins mentioned, “As most of you know, the last year has been a roller coaster for me. I usually like to keep my personal life private, but every time I step into the community, I realize I’m not alone on this journey. For now, I’m rooting for my team and working hard to get back even stronger in the 2026-27 season.”
After a solid performance in the 2024 national semifinals where she contributed eight points and 20 rebounds against NC State, expectations for Watkins were high as she entered her junior year. Unfortunately, things took a turn in late August when she faced legal issues, including charges related to an incident.
She was suspended from the team but later reinstated after completing a pre-trial intervention program. By early November, she was back on the court, having missed just one game.
Her season seemed to be back on track, showcasing her talent with impressive dunks and strong defensive skills, which had previously earned her a top ranking in blocked shots nationally as a sophomore. Watkins notably holds the distinction of being the only player in South Carolina women’s basketball history with two dunks.
However, her junior season came to an abrupt halt on January 5th when she tore her ACL against Mississippi State. The Gamecocks played in the national championship without her, and her versatility and rebounding prowess were missed. Before her injury, she averaged 7.2 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks across 14 games.
In a statement to the local news, South Carolina coach Dawn Staley expressed her support for Watkins, saying, “I support Ashlyn as she works to strengthen her body and mind, and I’ll be here when she’s ready to come back.”
On the brighter side, the Gamecocks will welcome back Chloe Kitts and Joyce Edwards, both of whom received honorable mentions last season, alongside newly added 6-foot-6 transfer Madina Ocotte from Mississippi, who averaged nearly a double-double with 11.3 points and 9.6 rebounds in her first season in the SEC.
When Watkins returns to the court, she will still have at least one year of eligibility left.
