Ashlyn Watkins of South Carolina to Miss the 2025-26 Season, Plans to Return for 2026-27
South Carolina standout Ashlyn Watkins will take a leave of absence from women's basketball to focus on her well-being, impacted by a recent ACL injury and a tumultuous year.
South Carolina forward Ashlyn Watkins announced via social media on Friday that she won’t participate in the upcoming season, which would have marked her senior year, but intends to return for the 2026-27 season.
“As most of you know, this past year has been a roller coaster for me,” Watkins expressed. “I usually prefer to keep my personal life private, but whenever I step into the community, I’m reminded that I’m not alone on this journey. The immense love and support from many of you encourages me, and because of that, I owe you some insight into what’s been going on.”
Watkins continued, “I want younger individuals who look up to me to understand that tough times do not define you; they bolster your resilience.”
“Given everything that has occurred this past year, I’ll take some time off to focus on myself, my community, my faith, and my family, allowing for personal growth and to navigate through life’s journey effectively.”
“I am deeply thankful for my coaches, the medical staff at USC, my teammates, and everyone supporting me along the way. For the time being, I’ll cheer for my teammates and work hard for a strong return in the 2026-27 season.”
A skilled defender, Watkins suffered a torn ACL on January 5 during a matchup with Mississippi State. Last season, she averaged 7.2 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game. The previous year, she recorded averages of 9.2 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks, playing a vital role on the unbeaten national championship Gamecocks team.
In a separate incident on August 31, 2024, Watkins faced legal troubles after being arrested and charged with first-degree assault and battery along with kidnapping following an event at the USC student housing facility. However, all charges were later dismissed after she completed a pre-trial intervention program, leading to her return to the Gamecocks on November 8, 2024.
With Watkins’ absence, key returning frontcourt players Joyce Edwards and Chloe Kitts will assume larger roles, along with Mississippi State transfer Madina Okot. South Carolina also welcomes top-tier freshmen Agot Makeer and Ayla McDowell.
