Chloe Kitts is Happy To be Back at Full-Speed Practice
South Carolina enters the upcoming season with one of the deepest rosters in women’s college basketball, but the team’s potential has always been connected to one major question: Can everyone stay healthy? One of the biggest pieces of that puzzle is senior forward Chloe Kitts, who missed last season after suffering a torn ACL.
That concern received an encouraging update Monday when Kitts participated in South Carolina’s first preseason practice at full speed and without a knee brace.
“Great,” Kitts said. “I feel great. Nice to be back out here with my team.”
Kitts appears fully recovered
Kitts is less than a year removed from her ACL injury, making her return to unrestricted practice particularly significant. Her rehabilitation has reportedly progressed smoothly, although South Carolina’s training staff has occasionally had to slow her down because she wanted to push herself faster than recommended.
ACL recoveries commonly take six to 12 months, and Kitts’ progress has been relatively quick compared with some former Gamecocks who suffered similar injuries.
Kitts explained that she no longer medically needs to wear a brace, although wearing one could still be a personal comfort decision.
Despite her impressive recovery, Dawn Staley does not appear eager to rush Kitts into game action. Kitts may not play in South Carolina’s upcoming exhibition against College of Charleston, allowing the coaching staff to continue managing her return carefully.
“Coach Chloe” has another important role
Even if Kitts doesn’t take the court immediately, she can still have a major impact on the team.
With five freshmen and two transfers joining the roster, Kitts has embraced the role of “Coach Chloe,” helping younger players understand South Carolina’s expectations and culture.
Kitts praised the newcomers for their willingness to learn and communicate.
“They’re all sponges. They want to do good, they want to be great. They’re actually really good communicators. They learn extremely fast.”
She also emphasized the chemistry developing within the group:
“We just love being around each other.”
That leadership could be particularly valuable as South Carolina integrates a large group of new players into an experienced championship-caliber program.
Experience returns alongside Kitts
Kitts’ return is even more important because she joins Ashlyn Watkins and Tessa Johnson as experienced players who understand Staley’s system. Their knowledge gives South Carolina a foundation while the newcomers adjust.
Staley highlighted the value of having experienced post players who already understand what the program demands.
“It’s great. You know you have experienced post players that understand what we’re trying to accomplish, and they’re actually doing it every day.”
Staley also pointed to Kitts’ work ethic and development, noting how valuable it is when veteran players reach the point where coaches no longer have to constantly explain their responsibilities.
“It’s really good to see when they become seniors and how much you don’t have to tell them what to do.”
A special final season
For Kitts, the biggest emotion is simply being back on the court with teammates she has shared her career with.
The senior is especially excited about playing alongside Watkins and Tessa Johnson, giving the three longtime Gamecocks an opportunity to finish their careers together.
“It feels great. We all three really haven’t played together for a while, so we have that chemistry.”
Kitts added:
“We’re all just really happy to be out there playing our last year together.”
After missing an entire season, Kitts’ return represents more than just another player becoming available. Her health, experience and leadership could be crucial as South Carolina blends its returning veterans with a talented group of newcomers. For now, the most important development is that Kitts is back practicing freely—and enjoying being a basketball player again.
About The Author
