“Sometimes I Can’t Believe It”: Chloe Kitts’ Development in South Carolina Dawn Staley was amazed.

In the world of college basketball, growth and development are often the keys to turning talented prospects into elite players. South Carolina’s Chloe Kitts has been a prime example of that process. A player with immense potential, Kitts arrived at South Carolina as a highly touted recruit, but her development under the guidance of head coach Dawn Staley has been nothing short of remarkable. As the Gamecocks continue their dominance in women’s college basketball, Staley has often found herself marveling at Kitts’ progression.

“Sometimes I can’t believe it,” Staley admitted. “To see where she was when she first got here to where she is now—it’s just incredible.”

From High School Phenom to College Standout

Kitts was always a name to watch in the high school basketball circuit. Standing at 6-foot-2 with a versatile skill set, she possessed the rare ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor. A skilled scorer, rebounder, and defender, Kitts was a key player in her high school years, but transitioning to the college level presented new challenges.

At South Carolina, she faced fierce competition every day in practice, going up against some of the best players in the country. The speed, physicality, and intensity of the college game were all new obstacles that she had to adjust to. While some freshmen struggle with the transition, Kitts embraced the challenge head-on.

Dawn Staley’s Influence on Kitts’ Development

One of the biggest factors in Kitts’ development has been Dawn Staley’s coaching philosophy. Staley, a Hall of Famer and one of the most respected coaches in basketball, has a unique way of pushing her players to reach their full potential. She demands excellence, but she also knows how to instill confidence in her athletes.

“When I first came here, I was nervous. Coach Staley doesn’t let you slack off, and I knew I had to bring my best every day,” Kitts recalled. “But she also believes in you even before you believe in yourself.”

That belief paid off as Kitts started seeing more playing time and making crucial contributions to the team. Whether it was her improved footwork, her defensive rotations, or her ability to stretch the floor with her shooting, Kitts was developing into the player South Carolina needed.

A Breakout Season

By her sophomore year, Kitts had fully embraced her role within the Gamecocks’ system. Her versatility made her a matchup nightmare for opponents. She could play inside and out, attack the rim, or knock down mid-range jumpers with ease. More importantly, her basketball IQ had grown significantly. Staley noticed the transformation, and the numbers backed it up.

Kitts’ rebounding numbers improved, her defensive metrics were stronger, and she was making an impact on the scoreboard. In key games, she delivered in clutch moments, proving that she wasn’t just a promising talent—she was a reliable contributor on one of the best teams in the nation.

The Moment That Left Staley Speechless

While there were many standout moments in Kitts’ development, one particular performance left Staley truly amazed. During a critical conference matchup, Kitts took over the game in the second half. She scored key baskets, locked down defensively, and even made a crucial three-pointer that helped South Carolina secure a win.

“That was the moment I knew,” Staley said. “She wasn’t just a player with potential anymore. She was a player who could change the course of a game. That’s special.”

What’s Next for Chloe Kitts?

With each passing game, Kitts continues to refine her skills and elevate her game. She has become an essential part of South Carolina’s rotation, and her future looks incredibly bright. As the Gamecocks set their sights on another deep NCAA tournament run, Kitts will undoubtedly play a crucial role in their success.

For Staley, watching Kitts grow has been one of the most rewarding aspects of coaching. “She’s got all the tools to be great,” Staley said. “And the scary part? She’s only going to get better.”

Kitts’ journey is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and the power of belief. And if her current trajectory is any indication, South Carolina fans should be very excited about what’s to come.