BREAKING NEWS: Chloe Kitts Stays Home – Gamecocks Star Announces Her Return for 2025-26 Season
Columbia, SC – The city of Columbia is buzzing with excitement as South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball standout Chloe Kitts announced she will return for the 2025-26 season, silencing speculation about her future. In a bold statement shared Thursday afternoon, Kitts said, “I’m not going anywhere.” With those five words, the Gamecocks faithful erupted in celebration, knowing one of their brightest stars will be suiting up in garnet and black for another run at glory.
Kitts, a versatile forward known for her explosive athleticism, basketball IQ, and all-around skill set, has been instrumental in South Carolina’s dominance on the national stage. After a stellar 2024-25 campaign, many expected the junior to declare for the WNBA Draft. Instead, Kitts made a decision from the heart—choosing loyalty, growth, and unfinished business with the program that helped her shine.
The announcement comes as a major boost for Head Coach Dawn Staley, who has built a powerhouse in Columbia and is no stranger to retaining top-tier talent. “We’re just getting started,” Staley said shortly after the news broke. “Chloe has everything it takes to be one of the best to ever wear the jersey. I’ve promised to make her better, stronger, and ready to dominate at the next level—and that starts right here, next season.”
Kitts averaged 13.7 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game this past season, showing significant growth on both ends of the floor. Her ability to stretch defenses with her shooting while locking down opponents on defense made her an irreplaceable piece of the Gamecocks’ success. Her chemistry with teammates, leadership in the locker room, and passion for the game have made her a fan favorite and a role model for younger players.
Her return also sends a powerful message to the rest of the SEC and the nation: South Carolina isn’t going anywhere either. With Kitts back in the fold, and a strong supporting cast including rising stars and incoming recruits, the Gamecocks are poised to continue their reign at the top of women’s college basketball.
Social media exploded following the announcement, with teammates, alumni, and fans celebrating her decision. “She’s the real deal,” former Gamecock star Aliyah Boston tweeted. “Proud of her for trusting her journey.”
For Kitts, the choice was about more than basketball—it was about family, legacy, and belief in what’s being built in Columbia. “This program has given me everything,” she said. “I’m ready to give it one more year of everything I’ve got.”
With her return, expectations for the 2025-26 season have skyrocketed, and the countdown to tipoff has already begun. One thing is clear: with Chloe Kitts staying home, the Gamecocks are once again the team to beat.
