News Summary
Ashlyn Watkins, a forward for the University of South Carolina women’s basketball team, has announced she will take the upcoming season off to focus on personal growth and well-being. She plans to emphasize family, faith, and community during her time away but intends to return for the following season. The decision comes after struggling with an ACL injury and facing legal challenges, which have colored her recent years in the sport. Coach Dawn Staley supports her choice, emphasizing athlete well-being beyond court performance.
Columbia, SC – Ashlyn Watkins, a forward for the University of South Carolina’s women’s basketball team, has officially announced that she will take the 2025-26 season off to focus on her personal development and well-being. The announcement came through her social media platforms, where she outlined intentions to emphasize her family, faith, and community during her time away from the sport. Watkins has confirmed plans to return for the 2026-27 season, asserting that she aims to “come back even stronger” than before.
During her previous season, Watkins played in 14 games, where she averaged 7.2 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game. Her promising season ended prematurely when she suffered an ACL injury during a matchup against Mississippi State on January 5. Following the injury, she was unable to practice during the summer session and subsequently missed the Gamecocks’ season opener due to a prior suspension.
In August 2024, Watkins faced legal challenges that included charges of first-degree assault and battery and kidnapping. However, these charges were dismissed after she successfully completed a pre-trial intervention program. Despite the hurdles, including her recent injury and legal issues, she has expressed gratitude towards her coaches, support staff, teammates, and fans in her recent statement regarding her decision.
South Carolina’s head coach, Dawn Staley, has shown support for Watkins’ decision to take the upcoming season off, stressing the importance of recognizing the individual needs of athletes beyond their contributions on the court. With Watkins stepping away, the team will need to strategize effectively to fill her role as a forward. This reliance is compounded by the challenges faced last season after the star player was sidelined with her ACL injury.
During Watkins’ absence last season, the Gamecocks relied heavily on players such as Sania Feagin, Chloe Kitts, and Joyce Edwards to fill the forward position. Furthermore, the team has strengthened its roster by acquiring Mississippi State transfer Madina Okot, who is anticipated to enhance the Gamecocks’ post play for the upcoming season.
Despite taking the year off, Watkins has at least one year of athletic eligibility remaining, since she will not participate in any games during the 2025-26 season. Additionally, she may consider applying for a medical redshirt due to her earlier injury, which could provide her with additional opportunities to return for another season after 2026-27 if necessary.
Throughout her career at South Carolina, Ashlyn Watkins has participated in 84 games and has an average of 7.3 points and 5.5 rebounds per game. She is widely recognized not only for her offensive contributions but also for her defensive capabilities, making her a valuable asset to the Gamecocks when she is on the court.
As Watkins embarks on this year of personal growth and recovery, the South Carolina women’s basketball team will be adjusting its strategies and lineups in preparation for the upcoming season. The focus will be on ensuring a competitive roster while also supporting Watkins in her journey to health and personal development.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tre’ Kelley Completes Degree at University of South Carolina
Charges Against South Carolina Basketball Player Ashlyn Watkins Dismissed, Potential Return to Court Imminent
USC Basketball Star Ashlyn Watkins’ Court Date Postponed Following Assault and Battery Charges
Additional Resources
- Greenville Online
- CBS Sports
- ESPN
- Encyclopedia Britannica: South Carolina women’s basketball
- 247 Sports
- Google News: Ashlyn Watkins
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