According to Dawn Staley, How Chloe Kitts Is Meeting Expectations in South Carolina

Since stepping foot on the University of South Carolina campus, Chloe Kitts has been a player to watch. The highly touted recruit was expected to make an immediate impact, and as we enter her sophomore year, it is clear that she is more than meeting those expectations. Under the guidance of head coach Dawn Staley, Kitts has evolved into one of the most prominent young stars in women’s basketball, showcasing a blend of athleticism, skill, and maturity on the court.

Let’s take a deeper dive into Kitts’ development, her contributions to the South Carolina Gamecocks, and how Staley views her progression within the team.

Early Years and Recruitment

Chloe Kitts hails from Oviedo, Florida, where she made a name for herself at DME Academy in Daytona Beach. Playing at a high level in high school, she displayed an impressive combination of scoring ability and rebounding prowess. Kitts’ skills didn’t go unnoticed, earning her a spot as one of the top recruits in the nation. Her recruitment was highly competitive, with offers from several elite programs across the country, but she ultimately chose South Carolina.

Kitts’ commitment to the Gamecocks was a huge boost for the program. A 5-star recruit, Kitts was ranked among the top 10 players in the nation and widely regarded as one of the best forwards in her class. With a reputation for being a versatile player who could impact the game on both ends of the floor, she was seen as a key future contributor for Staley’s team.

Freshman Year: A Steady Start

In her freshman year (2022–2023), Kitts faced the usual challenges that come with adjusting to the collegiate game. While she didn’t start every game, Kitts made appearances in 18 games, averaging just under 7 minutes per contest. As a freshman, she contributed modestly with 1.6 points and 0.7 rebounds per game. However, it was clear that her potential was undeniable.

Kitts was a part of a star-studded team that featured Aliyah Boston and Zia Cooke, two key players who guided the Gamecocks to success. Kitts’ role was primarily that of a contributor off the bench, but even as a freshman, she showcased glimpses of the skill that would later emerge as her defining trait.

Head coach Dawn Staley praised Kitts’ dedication and work ethic, especially during practice. Although her minutes were limited in her first year, Kitts consistently demonstrated her ability to learn and grow from every opportunity given to her on the court.

Sophomore Year: Taking Over the Spotlight

By her sophomore year (2023–2024), Kitts had completely transformed her game. She quickly became a central piece for South Carolina, starting 31 of 37 games and averaging 18.6 minutes per game. Her contributions on both ends of the floor became more apparent.

Kitts saw a notable increase in her scoring, averaging 9.1 points per game while also adding 5.9 rebounds per contest. Her shooting efficiency was impressive as well, boasting a 54.4% field goal percentage, which speaks to her ability to finish plays around the basket.

One of the most memorable moments of Kitts’ sophomore season came in the national championship game against Iowa. With the game tied in the second half, Kitts stepped up big, recording a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds. Her performance played a crucial role in helping the Gamecocks secure the win and ultimately claim the national title.

Coach Dawn Staley’s Assessment of Kitts

Dawn Staley has been instrumental in Kitts’ development, both as a player and a person. As the head coach of one of the most successful women’s basketball programs in the country, Staley has seen many talented players come and go. However, Kitts’ combination of raw talent and relentless work ethic has set her apart.

“Chloe has come a long way,” Staley said in a recent interview. “She’s a player who puts in the time, the effort, and you can see that on the court. Her growth has been remarkable, and it’s a testament to her dedication. She’s done everything we’ve asked of her and more.”

Staley is known for her ability to coach players into becoming more versatile, and Kitts has been a prime example of that philosophy. In addition to her scoring ability, Kitts has emerged as a strong defender, often tasked with guarding opponents’ most talented forwards. Staley has been quick to praise Kitts’ basketball IQ and ability to execute both the offensive and defensive schemes.

Kitts’ International Success: A Boost to Her Development

Beyond college play, Kitts’ success on the international stage has added another layer to her development. She played a key role in earning gold medals with the U.S. national team at the 2022 FIBA Under-18 Women’s Americas Championship and the 2023 FIBA Under-19 Women’s Basketball World Cup.

In the U19 World Cup final against Spain, Kitts turned in a standout performance with 15 points and 9 rebounds, showcasing her ability to step up in big moments. This international experience allowed her to compete at an elite level and helped refine her skills, which she has brought back to the South Carolina program.

2025 SEC Tournament: A Champion’s Performance

As the 2025 SEC Tournament unfolded, Kitts’ growth was evident once again. In the SEC championship game against Texas, Kitts delivered an outstanding performance, leading her team with 15 points and 9 rebounds. Her all-around play earned her MVP honors, further solidifying her place as one of the top players in the conference.

“Chloe is someone who doesn’t shy away from big moments,” Staley remarked. “She’s been through a lot in her short time here, and every time the pressure is on, she delivers. I couldn’t be prouder of how far she’s come, and she’s just getting started.”

The Future for Chloe Kitts and South Carolina

As Kitts looks ahead to the remainder of her career at South Carolina, the sky’s the limit. With another year of development under her belt, she is poised to continue her rise as one of the premier players in college basketball. Her ability to play multiple positions, along with her scoring, rebounding, and defensive prowess, makes her a key asset for the Gamecocks.

For Staley, Kitts is a prime example of what the program is all about: hard work, dedication, and team-first mentality. Staley’s coaching style is one that encourages players to grow beyond their limitations, and Kitts’ rapid development is a testament to that approach.

South Carolina has big plans for the future, and Chloe Kitts will undoubtedly play a major role in those plans. With the Gamecocks continuing to dominate the SEC and a national championship already under their belt, the expectations for Kitts are higher than ever.