Chloe Kitts Is Staying Home: A Gamecock’s Bold Return Sparks Buzz in Columbia

By Mary John

In the heart of Columbia, South Carolina, cheers erupted the moment Chloe Kitts made her announcement: “I’m not going anywhere.” The star forward for the South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball team confirmed she will return for the 2025–26 season, defying rumors of a transfer or early WNBA declaration. In an era where college sports are marked by constant player movement, this declaration felt like a throwback — and a statement of loyalty, purpose, and unfinished business.

Chloe Kitts, one of the most dynamic forwards in college basketball, had every reason to consider other paths. She’s been on the radar of WNBA scouts, received interest from powerhouse programs hoping to lure her into the transfer portal, and has already carved out a place in Gamecock lore. But instead, she’s doubling down on her commitment to head coach Dawn Staley, her teammates, and the South Carolina community that’s embraced her like family.

Let’s explore the full scope of this decision — the impact, the context, the personal story behind Chloe Kitts, and what this means for the 2025–26 NCAA basketball season.

From Oviedo to Columbia: Chloe’s Rise to Stardom

Born in Oviedo, Florida, Chloe Kitts began making headlines early in her high school career. A five-star recruit out of DME Academy, Kitts was known not just for her scoring ability, but for her leadership, poise, and versatility on the court. Standing at 6’2″ with a wingspan and agility that give her a unique edge, she plays the game with a combination of finesse and toughness that few can match.

She enrolled early at South Carolina during the 2022–23 season, a move that turned heads. While she was young, raw, and entering one of the most competitive rosters in the country, Kitts quickly proved she belonged. Under Coach Dawn Staley’s tutelage, she transformed into a reliable two-way threat and one of the Gamecocks’ most consistent performers.

By the time her junior season wrapped in 2024–25, Kitts had racked up accolades — SEC All-Defensive Team, multiple double-doubles, and a spot on midseason Wooden Award watch lists. Despite a strong campaign, South Carolina’s postseason exit left a bitter taste — and perhaps, part of the reason she chose to return.

A Changing Landscape in College Basketball

To fully appreciate the magnitude of Kitts’ decision, one must understand the context of modern college basketball. With NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals and the transfer portal reshaping the sport, it’s become increasingly rare to see players stay with one program throughout their college careers — especially stars.

The NCAA landscape is transient. Players come and go, seeking bigger platforms, brighter lights, or more lucrative NIL opportunities. Amid this flux, Kitts’ choice to stay grounded is almost revolutionary. It signals her belief in the culture Dawn Staley has built, in her teammates, and in the value of legacy over short-term gains.

Inside the Decision: Loyalty and Leadership

In a heartfelt Instagram post — accompanied by a picture of her in full Gamecocks gear — Kitts wrote, “This is home. I came here with a dream, and I’m not finished yet. Let’s run it back.”

Behind the scenes, sources close to the program said Kitts had long been leaning toward returning but wanted to wait until post-season evaluations were done. There were, reportedly, several NIL offers from outside interests and soft inquiries about her draft intentions, but none could match what South Carolina offers: a true sense of family and the opportunity to chase another national championship.

“Chloe has grown so much — not just as a player, but as a person,” Coach Staley told local reporters. “Her decision to come back speaks volumes about her character. She’s a leader now. She’s ready to leave a mark that goes beyond numbers.”

Impact on the Gamecocks Program

Kitts’ return instantly boosts South Carolina’s title hopes for 2025–26. With the departure of senior leaders, her experience and presence in the locker room will be critical. She’s expected to be a centerpiece — both offensively and defensively — in a squad that includes a mix of rising underclassmen and incoming recruits.

Her ability to guard multiple positions, initiate offense from the high post, and finish through contact gives the Gamecocks an edge most teams lack. Statistically, she averaged 13.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 2.3 assists last season — but her impact goes far beyond the box score.

As a vocal leader and tone-setter on the floor, her influence is felt in how she lifts her teammates — pushing through adversity, celebrating hustle plays, and owning tough defensive matchups.

More Than a Player: A Role Model in Columbia

In Columbia, Chloe Kitts is more than just an athlete — she’s a symbol of strength, commitment, and class. She regularly participates in community outreach programs, visits local schools, and has become a recognizable figure for young fans across South Carolina.

“She inspires our daughter,” said one local fan, whose 11-year-old plays AAU basketball. “It’s not just how she plays — it’s how she carries herself. Humble, driven, and kind.”

That influence is part of why her return resonates so deeply. In staying, Kitts not only gives the Gamecocks a boost on the court — she reinforces the program’s values: family, loyalty, and integrity.

WNBA Dreams Deferred — But Not Denied

While many projected Kitts as a possible first-round pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft, she clearly sees value in one more year of growth and impact. And it’s a wise move.

The 2026 draft class is shaping up to be highly competitive, but Kitts’ senior season gives her a chance to refine key aspects of her game — including her perimeter shooting and pick-and-roll decision-making — to further elevate her stock.

She’s already viewed as a “pro’s pro” by many scouts, but this extra year could position her as a lottery-level talent. More importantly, it gives her the platform to finish what she started at South Carolina.

The Bigger Picture: Dawn Staley’s Culture Wins Again

In many ways, Chloe Kitts’ decision is as much a win for Coach Dawn Staley as it is for the program. Staley has built a culture rooted in empowerment, respect, and player development — and time and again, players respond with loyalty and passion.

Under her leadership, South Carolina has become a premier destination for elite talent — not just because of championships, but because of the culture. Players like Aliyah Boston, A’ja Wilson, and now Chloe Kitts embody what it means to wear the garnet and black with pride.

Fan Reactions: “Let’s Run It Back!”

Social media lit up the moment Kitts posted her announcement. The official Gamecocks basketball Twitter account reposted it with the caption: “She’s back. And we’re not done.”

Fans flooded comment sections with gifs, heart emojis, and cries of celebration. One tweet summed it up best: “Chloe Kitts coming back is the best off-season recruit we could have.”

Students on campus are already buzzing about the 2025–26 season, with many saying they expect Colonial Life Arena to be packed every night. For the fanbase, Kitts’ return represents hope, continuity, and another chance at cutting down the nets in March.

Looking Ahead: Goals and Expectations

With her senior season ahead, Chloe Kitts has clear goals in mind: improve her perimeter game, become a more vocal leader, and help her team compete for another SEC and national title.

“I’ve grown every year, and I know the best is yet to come,” she told reporters in a brief media availability. “We’re going to be ready. I believe in us.”

The Gamecocks will enter next season as a top-five preseason team, with Kitts squarely at the heart of their plans. Opposing teams will key in on her, but she thrives on that challenge. And now, with a full offseason to prepare, she’ll have the chance to fully assert herself as one of the nation’s most dominant players.

Final Thoughts: A Star Who Chose Legacy

In a sports world obsessed with the next big thing, Chloe Kitts reminds us of something important: Sometimes, the boldest move is staying put.

Her decision to return to South Carolina for her senior season is a statement of loyalty, belief, and unfinished business. It’s a love letter to the fans, a challenge to her teammates, and a declaration of war to the rest of the NCAA.

Because for Chloe Kitts, this isn’t just about basketball. It’s about legacy.

And she’s not going anywhere.