Chloe Kitts Describes Her Duke Transfer as “A Dream Scenario” Following Her South Carolina Title Run
When Chloe Kitts made her decision to transfer to Duke University after a remarkable season with the South Carolina Gamecocks, it came as a moment of both personal and professional triumph. The 6-foot-3 forward had just helped South Carolina capture its second consecutive NCAA women’s basketball title, and her move to Duke promised a new chapter in her already glittering career. With Kitts now donning a new uniform, many fans were curious to know how the national champion felt about her shift from Columbia, South Carolina, to Durham, North Carolina. In a recent interview, Kitts openly described her transfer to Duke as “a dream scenario,” offering insight into her thought process, the motivation behind her decision, and what it means for her future.
From Gamecock Glory to Blue Devil Dreams
Kitts was a key player in South Carolina’s title run, where the team dominated opponents and showed the world why it is considered one of the premier programs in women’s college basketball. With a season-high scoring performance and a role in crucial victories, Kitts was an integral part of the squad coached by the legendary Dawn Staley. Yet, despite the success she enjoyed at South Carolina, Kitts felt that moving to a new program was the best decision for her future development.
When Kitts was asked about the transfer decision, she recalled the moment when she realized it was the right step for her. “It was bittersweet leaving South Carolina, no doubt,” Kitts said, reflecting on her departure. “But when the opportunity to join a program like Duke came, it felt like the right fit for my next phase as a player and a person. The culture, the coaching staff, and the vision they have for me—it just felt like a dream scenario. I’m excited for the challenge that lies ahead.”
The transition to Duke is a significant one. The Blue Devils have long been considered a powerhouse in women’s basketball, and the leadership of Coach Kara Lawson has brought an exciting new energy to the team. For Kitts, the chance to play under Lawson’s guidance is something she views as a perfect next step in her career. With her eyes on professional aspirations and continuing her development on and off the court, the decision to transfer was one that felt like an alignment of all the right pieces.
The Impact of South Carolina’s Championship Run
During her time at South Carolina, Kitts was known for her strong presence in the paint, her athleticism, and her basketball IQ. Though not always in the spotlight, her contributions were crucial to the Gamecocks’ success. Her ability to score in key moments, grab rebounds, and defend the paint helped solidify South Carolina as an unstoppable force in the tournament.
The 2024 NCAA Tournament was a defining moment for Kitts, and it remains a highlight of her young career. The Gamecocks were not just defending their title but were also battling through a series of tough, high-pressure games, each one representing a test of their mettle. Kitts played an important role in these contests, proving her worth in both the semifinal and championship games, where she played with poise and maturity beyond her years.
One of the biggest takeaways for Kitts from South Carolina’s title run was the opportunity to compete against some of the best talent in the nation, a challenge that helped her grow. “Winning the championship at South Carolina was an incredible feeling. But more than that, it showed me what I am capable of when I put my all into the game,” Kitts shared. “It gave me a new perspective and helped me see the type of player I want to become. That’s something I’m taking with me as I transition to Duke.”
The Decision to Transfer: What Led to Duke?
For many student-athletes, transferring from one prestigious program to another is not an easy decision. Kitts, however, seemed confident and resolute in her reasoning for the move. The coaching staff at Duke, led by Kara Lawson, played a pivotal role in Kitts’s decision. Lawson, a former standout player in her own right, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Blue Devils. Her track record of developing players into professional prospects is another factor that made Duke an appealing option for Kitts.
When asked about why Duke felt like the right place for her, Kitts was quick to highlight the Blue Devils’ commitment to player development. “I think the opportunity to be a part of a program that is so focused on growth and development, not just as a player but as a person, really stood out to me,” she said. “Coach Lawson and her staff understand what it takes to compete at the highest level, and they really have a vision for me to grow into the best version of myself on the court. That was a huge part of my decision.”
Additionally, Kitts emphasized that the culture of support at Duke resonated with her. “The atmosphere at Duke is one of constant learning and pushing each other to be better every day. It’s a place where excellence is expected, and that’s exactly where I want to be.”
How Kitts Fits into Duke’s Future Plans
Kitts’s arrival at Duke is expected to bring immediate impact to the Blue Devils, and she is eager to contribute to the team’s success. Her versatility as a forward, combined with her skill set, makes her a dynamic addition to the roster. She has the ability to stretch the floor, score in the post, and defend multiple positions, which will provide Duke with a well-rounded player who can impact the game in various ways.
Kara Lawson has spoken highly of Kitts’s potential, describing her as “a complete player with an incredible work ethic.” The Blue Devils’ head coach also sees Kitts as someone who will help elevate the program to new heights. “Chloe is a tremendous talent with the skill set and mindset to succeed at the highest level,” Lawson said in a statement. “We are excited to welcome her to the Blue Devil family and to help her achieve her goals.”
Kitts herself recognizes the opportunity in front of her to become a leader at Duke. With a new team, a new coaching staff, and new challenges, she knows this is her chance to shine even brighter. “I want to come in and make an immediate impact,” she explained. “Duke has a rich tradition, and I’m excited to be a part of it. I want to bring my energy, my experience, and my love for the game to help this team succeed.”
The Road to the WNBA
As much as Kitts is focused on her college journey, she also has one eye on the future and her professional aspirations. The WNBA is undoubtedly on her radar, and with her skill set and potential, there’s little doubt that she could make a significant impact at the next level.
Kitts is aware that her time at Duke will play a key role in preparing her for the WNBA draft. She understands the importance of continuing to refine her game, and she has embraced the challenge of doing so at Duke. “The goal is always to get better, to keep learning and growing,” Kitts stated. “And with the resources and support that Duke provides, I’m excited to see where my game can go.”
She believes that being in a program like Duke, which prioritizes player development, will prepare her to compete at the professional level. “I want to be the best version of myself when I get that opportunity,” she said. “I think Duke will help me get there, and I’m committed to doing whatever it takes to reach my full potential.”
A Dream Scenario
In the end, Chloe Kitts’s decision to transfer to Duke is a clear reflection of her ambition and desire for growth. Having already achieved tremendous success at South Carolina, she is now poised to take the next step in her basketball journey, one that promises even more accomplishments, both on and off the court.
“I’m grateful for my time at South Carolina, and I’m so proud of everything we accomplished there,” Kitts said. “But I’m excited for the new chapter and the new challenges that await me at Duke. It really is a dream scenario, and I’m ready to make the most of it.”
With Kitts joining the Blue Devils, the future of women’s college basketball just became a little more exciting.
