South Carolina women’s basketball forward Ashlyn Watkins announced that she will take a leave of absence and sit out the entire 2025–26 season. Watkins, who would have been a senior, plans to return to the court for the 2026–27 season.
In a personal statement shared on social media, Watkins said she would be stepping away from basketball to focus on herself, her family, faith, and community. She thanked her coaches, teammates, and South Carolina’s medical staff for their support and added that she would be cheering on her team from the sidelines while working toward a strong return.
Background
Watkins’ decision comes after a challenging year, both on and off the court. In January 2025, she suffered a season-ending ACL tear during a game against Mississippi State. At the time of the injury, she had played in 14 games and was averaging 7.2 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game.
Earlier in the 2024–25 season, Watkins faced legal issues. She was arrested in August 2024 on charges of assault, battery, and kidnapping. Following her arrest, she was suspended from the team but later had all charges dismissed after completing a pre-trial intervention program. She was reinstated to the team in November 2024.
Support from Coach Dawn Staley
South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley voiced her full support for Watkins’ decision to take time away from the sport.
“Everyone in our program is valued as the whole of who they are,” Staley said. “We will support Ashlyn as she works through getting her body and mind stronger, and we will be here when she is ready to return.”
Team Outlook for 2025–26
Despite Watkins’ absence, South Carolina is expected to remain competitive. The Gamecocks will return a talented frontcourt led by Chloe Kitts and Joyce Edwards, both of whom earned All-America honorable mentions last season. Additionally, Madina Okot, a 6-foot-6 transfer from Mississippi State, will join the team after averaging nearly a double-double in the SEC.
Eligibility Status
Watkins is expected to have at least one year of NCAA eligibility remaining when she returns in 2026–27. There is a possibility she could receive a medical redshirt for the 2024–25 season, which would provide her additional eligibility moving forward.
