South Carolina Star Forward Chloe Kitts to Miss Entire Season with Torn ACL: A Major Setback for the Gamecocks

— South Carolina senior forward Chloe Kitts has confirmed that she will miss the entirety of the 2025 season after suffering a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in her right knee during a recent team practice. The announcement, made via social media Monday morning, sent shockwaves through the college basketball community, as the Gamecocks brace for the season without one of their most dynamic and influential players.

Kitts, a two-year starter for South Carolina, expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support while sharing the difficult news. She wrote:

“Thank you for 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!”

The 6-foot-2 forward, known for her scoring ability, rebounding tenacity, and defensive presence, is scheduled to undergo surgery this week to repair the ligament. While the recovery process will be arduous, Kitts remains committed to guiding the Gamecocks from the sidelines and providing leadership for her teammates during a critical season.

Kitts’ Rise to Prominence

Chloe Kitts has been a driving force for the Gamecocks over the past two seasons. After joining South Carolina as a highly touted recruit, she quickly established herself as a versatile forward capable of impacting all areas of the game. Her performances in key tournaments and high-stakes matchups have made her a cornerstone of coach Dawn Staley’s program.

Last season, Kitts earned recognition as the Southeastern Conference (SEC) Tournament MVP, highlighting her ability to perform under pressure. She also secured NCAA Binghamton Regionals MVP honors, leading South Carolina deep into the NCAA Tournament and helping solidify the Gamecocks’ status as one of the elite programs in women’s college basketball.

Her career statistics reflect her consistent production on both ends of the floor. Kitts averages double-digit points per game, excels in rebounds, and is known for her ability to guard multiple positions. Beyond the stat sheet, her leadership, work ethic, and competitiveness have made her a model student-athlete and a mentor for younger players entering the program.

Coach Dawn Staley Reacts

Staley, a Hall of Fame player and one of the most respected coaches in women’s college basketball, issued a statement emphasizing the impact of Kitts’ absence but expressing confidence in her team’s resilience.

“We hate this first for Chloe, who has worked incredibly hard to become the best version of herself on the court this season. 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,” Staley said.

Staley, who has guided South Carolina to national prominence with multiple SEC titles and deep NCAA Tournament runs, faces a significant challenge in adjusting her lineup without one of her top forwards. The coach will rely heavily on the team’s depth and the emergence of younger players to fill the void left by Kitts’ injury.

A Program Facing Challenges

Kitts’ injury represents the second major setback for the Gamecocks in recent months. Earlier this year, senior forward Ashlyn Watkins suffered a season-ending ACL tear in January, leaving the team without another key contributor. With both Kitts and Watkins sidelined, South Carolina must recalibrate its offensive and defensive strategies to remain competitive in the SEC, a conference known for its depth and talent.

Despite the adversity, Kitts remains committed to contributing in any way possible. She plans to support her teammates from the sidelines, attend practices, and offer guidance to younger players stepping into larger roles. Her presence, even off the court, is expected to be a source of motivation and inspiration for the team.

Impact on the Gamecocks’ Season Outlook

The Gamecocks began the 2025 season with high expectations, aiming to contend for the SEC title and make another deep run in the NCAA Tournament. Kitts’ injury forces the team to adjust its game plan, particularly in the post, where her scoring, rebounding, and defensive versatility were critical components.

Coach Staley and her staff will need to explore alternative rotations and strategies to maintain South Carolina’s competitiveness. Players who were previously in supporting roles will now be asked to take on greater responsibilities, both on offense and defense. The team’s ability to adapt and overcome these challenges will be closely watched throughout the season.

Chloe Kitts’ WNBA Prospects

Prior to her injury, Kitts was projected to be a high pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft, attracting interest from multiple professional teams. Scouts and analysts praised her combination of size, athleticism, and basketball IQ, predicting she could make an immediate impact at the next level.

The timing of the ACL injury complicates her draft stock, as professional teams often consider medical history and recovery timelines when evaluating prospects. Kitts has yet to announce whether she will pursue a medical redshirt, which would allow her to return to South Carolina for another collegiate season, regain her pre-injury form, and potentially improve her draft positioning.

Regardless of her path forward, Kitts’ determination, work ethic, and mental toughness have already left a lasting impression on the basketball community. Analysts note that many elite athletes have returned successfully from ACL injuries, suggesting that Kitts’ professional aspirations remain very much alive.

Teammates and Leadership

Kitts’ teammates have expressed support and admiration for her resilience. Senior point guard Jada Simmons described Kitts as “the heart of our team,” emphasizing that her leadership extends beyond scoring or statistics.

“Chloe has always been the one pushing us to be better, holding us accountable, and leading by example. Even off the court, her energy and guidance will keep us focused. We’re going to fight for her this season,” Simmons said.

Other players echoed similar sentiments, noting that Kitts’ influence as a mentor and motivator will help them navigate the challenges of a season without two of their most experienced forwards.

A Community Rallies Around Her

The South Carolina basketball community, including fans, alumni, and supporters, have also shown an outpouring of love and encouragement for Kitts. Social media platforms are filled with messages wishing her a speedy recovery and praising her dedication to the team.

“We know this isn’t the way Chloe wanted to start her final season, but she’s a fighter. We believe in her and can’t wait to see her back on the court,” one fan tweeted.

The support underscores Kitts’ status not only as a star athlete but also as a respected figure in the broader South Carolina community. Her journey resonates with many young athletes facing injuries and challenges, serving as a reminder of resilience, perseverance, and the importance of leadership.

Looking Ahead: Recovery and Return

Recovery from an ACL tear typically involves several months of rehabilitation, including surgery, physical therapy, and gradual return to basketball activities. Kitts’ medical team will work closely with her to ensure a safe and effective recovery process.

While the road ahead is challenging, Kitts’ mindset remains positive. Her statement about trusting “God’s timing and purpose” reflects her determination to embrace the journey, remain engaged with her team, and continue growing as a player and leader.

Experts note that with proper medical care and rehabilitation, many athletes return to their pre-injury level of performance or even improve their game as they focus on strength, conditioning, and technique during recovery. For Kitts, the coming months will be a test of both physical and mental fortitude.

Conclusion

The loss of Chloe Kitts for the 2025 season is undeniably a major blow for the South Carolina Gamecocks. Her talent, leadership, and competitive spirit have been integral to the program’s recent success. Yet, even in the face of adversity, Kitts’ determination to support her team and focus on recovery exemplifies the qualities that have made her a standout player.

Coach Dawn Staley, her teammates, and fans across the nation will watch closely as Kitts embarks on her rehabilitation journey. While the 2025 season will be different without her on the court, her influence will remain a guiding force for South Carolina, inspiring her teammates to rise to the occasion and continue the legacy of excellence that she has helped build.

As Kitts faces the challenge of returning to peak form, the broader basketball community will undoubtedly be rooting for one of the sport’s most promising young forwards. Her story, marked by talent, leadership, and resilience, is far from over — and the next chapter promises to be as compelling as the first.