Chloe Kitts Shuts Down Transfer Talk, Commits to South Carolina and Coach Dawn Staley to Anchor Gamecocks’ Frontcourt
Chloe Kitts, a 6-foot-2 forward from Oviedo, Florida, has firmly committed to the University of South Carolina’s women’s basketball program under the leadership of head coach Dawn Staley. This decision effectively ends any speculation regarding potential transfers and underscores her dedication to the Gamecocks.
Early Enrollment and Immediate Impact
Kitts made the uncommon decision to enroll early at South Carolina in December 2022, foregoing the remainder of her senior year at DME Academy. This move allowed her to integrate into the team mid-season, providing her with a head start in adapting to collegiate-level basketball. During her freshman year (2022-2023), she participated in 18 games, contributing to the Gamecocks’ impressive 36-1 record and their journey to the NCAA Final Four. Her early enrollment showcased her commitment and readiness to compete at a high level. Daily Gamecock+1University of South Carolina Athletics+1
Sophomore Season: Growth and Championship Success
In her sophomore season (2023-2024), Kitts played a pivotal role in South Carolina’s undefeated national championship run, becoming just the fifth program in NCAA history to achieve such a feat. She averaged 9.1 points on 54.4% shooting and 5.9 rebounds over 37 games. Notably, she recorded six double-doubles and scored in double figures 19 times. Her performance in the National Championship game against Iowa, where she secured a double-double in just seven minutes, highlighted her efficiency and impact on the court. University of South Carolina Athletics+1Daily Gamecock+1
Junior Year: Emergence as a Team Leader
By her junior year (2024-2025), Kitts had emerged as a cornerstone of the Gamecocks’ frontcourt. She led the team with 7.6 rebounds per game and maintained an average of 9.4 points per game. Her dedication to improving her physical strength during the offseason was evident, as she spent considerable time in the weight room to enhance her on-court performance. Daily Gamecock
Kitts delivered several standout performances during the season. On December 5, 2024, she tied her career high with 21 points and 11 rebounds in a victory over Duke, demonstrating her ability to excel against top-tier competition. Later in the season, on February 28, 2025, she achieved her first career triple-double with 16 points, 13 rebounds, and 10 assists in a win over Ole Miss, joining an elite group of South Carolina players to accomplish this feat. Garnet and Cocky+2Garnet and Cocky+2Daily Gamecock+2Garnet and Cocky
SEC Tournament and National Recognition
Kitts continued her exceptional play into the postseason. In the SEC Tournament quarterfinals against Vanderbilt, she scored a career-high 25 points on 12-of-14 shooting, along with 10 rebounds, leading the Gamecocks to an 84-63 victory. Head coach Dawn Staley praised her performance, noting Kitts’ consistency and playmaking abilities. Garnet and Cocky
Her contributions were instrumental in South Carolina’s deep run in the NCAA Tournament. As the Gamecocks aimed to defend their national title, Kitts’ presence in the frontcourt provided the team with a reliable scoring and rebounding option. Her performances garnered national attention, solidifying her reputation as one of the premier forwards in collegiate basketball.
Commitment to South Carolina and Future Aspirations
Amidst speculation about potential transfers, Kitts reaffirmed her commitment to South Carolina and Coach Staley’s program. Her decision to remain with the Gamecocks highlights her belief in the team’s culture and her desire to continue developing under Staley’s guidance. This commitment not only provides stability to South Carolina’s roster but also positions Kitts to further elevate her game in her senior season.
Looking ahead, Kitts aims to build upon her successes and lead the Gamecocks to continued prominence in women’s college basketball. Her dedication to improvement, coupled with her on-court performances, sets the stage for a promising future both at South Carolina and potentially at the professional level.
