The South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball team, one of the most dominant forces in college basketball, has hit an unexpected hurdle just weeks before the start of a new season.
Their pursuit of a third straight NCAA National Championship final has become more difficult after losing one of their brightest stars, Chloe Kitts, to a major injury.
A Sudden End to a Promising Season
Kitts’ season came to an abrupt stop after she suffered a torn ACL in her right knee during a team practice, the program confirmed on Monday.
The talented forward is expected to undergo surgery later this week, marking a heartbreaking end to her campaign before it even began.
South Carolina, set to tip off its season on November 3, will now have to adjust quickly to fill the void left by her absence.
Kitts Speaks Out With Faith and Positivity
Despite the setback, Kitts has handled the devastating news with remarkable strength and optimism.
Sharing her thoughts on X (formerly Twitter), she wrote, “Thank you to everyone who has reached out with love and support.
I recently suffered a torn ACL and, unfortunately, will be out for the season.
While this isn’t how I hoped my season would go, I’m trusting God’s timing and purpose.
I’ll continue to lead, support, and push my teammates from the sidelines. We have big things ahead!”
Her message reflects not just resilience, but also the strong leadership and faith that have made her such an integral part of the Gamecocks’ success.
The Rise of a Star Athlete
Kitts’ loss is a big blow for the Gamecocks.
The senior forward has been a two-year starter and was last season’s Southeastern Conference (SEC) Tournament MVP as well as the NCAA Binghamton Regionals MVP.
She played in all 38 games last year, averaging 10.2 points and 7.7 rebounds per game.
Her consistency and energy were instrumental in helping South Carolina reach the March Madness final, where they ultimately fell to UConn, 82-59.
Championship Memories and Major Milestones
Beyond her impressive stats, Kitts has been a key contributor to South Carolina’s success story.
During the team’s 2024 national championship run, she posted an 11-point, 10-rebound double-double in just 17 minutes, helping the Gamecocks defeat Caitlin Clark’s Iowa squad.
That performance further solidified her reputation as a clutch player who shines in high-pressure games.
Coach Staley Praises Kitts’ Determination
Gamecocks coach Dawn Staley expressed both heartbreak and confidence when discussing Kitts’ situation.
“We hate this first for Chloe, who has worked incredibly hard to become the best version of herself on the court this season,” Staley said in a statement.
“Her teammates are capable of stepping up, and I know that her competitive fire and tenacity will be felt from the sidelines as she pours what she can into them to ensure our team’s success.”
What Lies Ahead for Kitts
As she recovers from her injury, questions remain about Kitts’ future.
As a senior, she could apply for a medical redshirt, giving her the option to return for another season.
Before the injury, she was projected to be a high pick in next year’s WNBA draft—an opportunity that may now be delayed, depending on her recovery timeline.
Another Blow for the Gamecocks
Unfortunately for South Carolina, Kitts isn’t the only key player the team will be missing.
Forward Ashlyn Watkins, who also suffered a torn ACL in January, announced earlier this year that she would take a full year off from school and basketball to recover.
Losing two vital players in one year presents a serious challenge for a program with championship aspirations.
Off-Court Spotlight and Viral Moment
Off the court, Kitts has built quite a presence of her own.
With over 269,000 Instagram followers, she went viral earlier this year at the NBA Draft when she appeared alongside her boyfriend, Collin Murray-Boyles, who was selected ninth overall by the Toronto Raptors.
Cameras captured the heartfelt moment when he stood to celebrate his draft selection, hugging his family and Kitts, who quickly caught fans’ attention with her glamorous appearance.
A Power Couple in Basketball
Murray-Boyles, who averaged 16.8 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 2.4 assists in his final college season, also earned second-team All-SEC honors as a sophomore and was named to the SEC All-Freshman Team.
With both stars making waves in basketball—one in recovery and the other entering the professional league—their stories continue to inspire fans who admire their talent, resilience, and love for the game.
What’s Next
For now, South Carolina will have to rally without one of its leaders.
While Kitts focuses on recovery and rehabilitation, her teammates will look to carry the torch in her honor.
And as for Kitts, her determination and positivity suggest that this setback is just another chapter in what promises to be a long and inspiring basketball journey.