South Carolina Gamecocks women's basketball will be without forward Ashlyn Watkins in the upcoming 2025-26 season. Watkins, who would have been returning to the court for her senior year, announced via social media that she is stepping away to focus on her personal journey. She confirmed her plans to return to Gamecock basketball for the 2026-27 season.
“With everything that’s happened this year, I’m going to take some time off to focus on myself, my community, my faith, and my family, so that I can grow as an individual and attempt to master this journey of life,” Watkins shared in the post.
The former McDonald's All-American played in 14 games last year before suffering a season-ending ACL injury in January during a game against Mississippi State. Watkins also missed the first game of her junior campaign due to legal trouble during the offseason. Despite the setbacks, she remained a supportive presence on the bench for the Lady Gamecocks. But now, Watkins is prioritizing her health and growth before returning.
South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley also released a statement giving her full support for her player: “Everyone in our program is valued as the whole of who they are, not just as a player or coach or staff member and not just for the time they are on our team. 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.”
Watkins also expressed her gratitude for the coaches and program in her social media post:
“I’m so grateful for my coaches, the USC medical team, my teammates, and everyone who’s supported me along the way. For now, I’ll be cheering on my team and working hard to come back even stronger in the 2026-27 season.”
While Watkins' absence will be felt as it was last season, her commitment to return even stronger, physically and mentally, is a testament to her resilience. And her future as a Gamecock is still very bright.