South Carolina Gamecocks forward Chloe Kitts faced a career-altering setback in October 2025 when she tore her ACL during a pre-season scrimmage. The injury derailed her anticipated senior year and immediate entry into the WNBA Draft, forcing a reevaluation of her basketball future. Instead of rushing into the professional league, Kitts has decided to return to college for another season, prioritizing full recovery and further development.
The Injury and Immediate Impact
The torn ACL was an abrupt halt to Kitts’s carefully laid plans. She recounts the moment with stark clarity: “Immediately, I already knew what happened… Dang.” The injury not only eliminated her senior season but also cast doubt on her immediate WNBA prospects. However, rather than succumb to despair, Kitts quickly recognized the need for adaptation. She understood that forcing an early draft entry while compromised would not serve her long-term goals.
The Power of Team Support
Kitts’s recovery wasn’t a solitary struggle. Her teammates rallied around her, providing emotional and practical support. A gift basket filled with comfort items, coupled with hands-on assistance from teammates like Tessa Johnson and Adhel Tac, underscored the tight-knit nature of the South Carolina program. This environment allowed Kitts to focus on healing without the added stress of isolation.
Embracing a New Mindset
The injury forced Kitts to adopt a new perspective on progress. Instead of fixating on setbacks, she began celebrating incremental victories—walking without crutches, then light jumps, and finally, the anticipation of running again. This shift in mindset was crucial for her mental well-being. She realized that dwelling on the past was unproductive; instead, she needed to “turn the page,” as Coach Dawn Staley advised.
Mental Fortitude and Growth
Kitts’s time away from the court also highlighted the importance of mental resilience. She had previously struggled with pre-game anxiety but now actively sought help from a sports psychiatrist, learning coping mechanisms like deep breathing and mindfulness exercises. This focus on mental well-being extended beyond basketball, as she explored interests outside the sport, discovering Pilates and prioritizing self-care.
The Role of Dawn Staley
Central to Kitts’s journey is her relationship with South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley. Staley’s mentorship extends beyond basketball, providing Kitts with guidance on both personal and professional matters. Kitts explicitly credits Staley’s track record of developing WNBA players as a key factor in her decision to stay at South Carolina. “She produces pros, and I want to be a pro,” Kitts stated.
Looking Ahead
Kitts believes that her rigorous recovery regimen, including Pilates and strength training, has accelerated her progress. She is confident in her ability to return stronger than before. More importantly, the injury has given her a renewed appreciation for the game. Her ultimate goal remains clear: playing in the WNBA. However, she now understands that rushing the process would be detrimental to her long-term success.
Kitts’s decision to stay at South Carolina is a testament to her resilience and strategic thinking. The injury, while devastating, has provided an opportunity for growth—both on and off the court. Her commitment to mental and physical development ensures that when she does enter the WNBA, she will be fully prepared to compete at the highest level.
