Chloe Kitts | Forward | South Carolina: Impact Player in SEC Women’s Basketball
Chloe Kitts has quickly made a name for herself as a key forward for the South Carolina Gamecocks, showing the consistent skill and versatility coaches look for at the next level. Standing out in a program known for its winning culture, she brings energy on both ends of the court, making her an exciting player to watch this season. Kitts’ sharp instincts around the rim and her reputation as a tough rebounder set her apart in the SEC.
Her growth since joining the Gamecocks has been steady. With each game, Kitts shows improvement in scoring, defense, and playmaking.
Review of her statistics shows a forward who contributes in every area:
| Season | Points Per Game | Rebounds Per Game | Assists Per Game | Blocks Per Game |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024-25 | 10.8 | 7.3 | 2.1 | 1.2 |
| 2023-24 | 8.2 | 6.0 | 1.6 | 0.8 |
Kitts’ mix of size, skill, and basketball IQ has scouts considering her as a real option for the 2026 WNBA Draft. Her steady development in one of the top women’s basketball programs in the country only strengthens her case to play at the next level.
Contents
Chloe Kitts: Profile and Background
Chloe Kitts has become a key player for the South Carolina Gamecocks, building a reputation as a reliable forward. Her journey from high school standout in Florida to a core contributor in the SEC highlights her skill, work ethic, and potential for the next level.
Early Life and High School Career
Kitts grew up in Oviedo, Florida, where she developed a passion for basketball early on. She attended DME Academy, a well-known basketball program that shaped her foundation as an athlete.
At DME, Kitts built up her profile as a versatile and dynamic forward.
While at DME Academy, she averaged double-digit points and excelled on both sides of the court. Kitts was highly recruited and ranked among the top prospects in her class thanks to her consistent play and leadership. She balanced her on-court success with academic effort, maintaining a 3.4 GPA, which showed her commitment not only as an athlete but also as a student.
Her high school performances drew attention from major college programs across the country. This exposure set the stage for a fast-moving college career and was a key reason why South Carolina pursued her.
Commitment to South Carolina
Kitts chose to play for the South Carolina Gamecocks in the SEC. She joined a program known for its competitive spirit and championship pedigree. Her decision was influenced by South Carolina’s strong coaching staff, player development, and the opportunity to compete at the highest level.
As a Gamecock, Kitts stepped into a roster filled with talent but quickly showed her value. She became a regular part of the rotation, often starting games and producing solid numbers. Kitts has displayed steady improvement each season, becoming a go-to option in crucial moments.
Her growth at South Carolina has made her an intriguing prospect for the 2026 WNBA draft. Her combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ appeals to scouts looking for immediate impact forwards.
Physical Attributes and Playing Style
Standing at 6’2” and playing at forward, Kitts brings a mix of strength and agility to the floor. She uses her size effectively in the paint, whether grabbing rebounds or defending taller opponents. Known for her footwork and quick decisions, Kitts often creates mismatches against other forwards.
Below is a table of her 2024-25 season statistics:
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Points/Game | 10.2 |
| Rebounds/Game | 6.8 |
| Assists/Game | 2.1 |
| FG % | 49% |
| Blocks/Game | 1.0 |
Kitts can stretch the floor with her mid-range jumper and finish in transition. She is also valuable defensively, able to switch onto wings and guards. Her consistent improvement and versatility make her a strong candidate for the WNBA, where coaches value size and adaptability at the forward spot.
College Career at South Carolina
Chloe Kitts made her mark with the South Carolina Gamecocks as a versatile forward, known for her size and basketball IQ. Her growth has been steady, fueled by Gamecocks head coach Dawn Staley, and she has shown skills on both offense and defense that set her apart in college basketball.
Freshman Year Highlights
Kitts joined the Gamecocks roster in January 2023 after finishing her high school career at DME Academy in Florida. She wasted little time making an impact, quickly becoming a player who could contribute off the bench. With her 6-foot-2 frame and quick reflexes, she showed promise as both a rebounder and defender.
During her freshman season, Kitts averaged 3.6 points and 2.7 rebounds per game. Her performances included several double-digit scoring games and strong defensive outings against top SEC competition. Her energy and willingness to do the little things—screening, boxing out, fighting for loose balls—helped the Gamecocks maintain their high standards on both ends of the floor.
| Statistic | Per Game |
|---|---|
| Points | 3.6 |
| Rebounds | 2.7 |
| Assists | 0.8 |
| Field Goal % | 51.1% |
Growth and Development
Kitts displayed steady progress as the season unfolded, earning more minutes thanks to her court awareness and improved decision-making. She became more comfortable in South Carolina’s system, learning from veteran teammates and adapting to the fast pace of SEC basketball.
Her mid-range shot started to develop, making her harder to guard in pick-and-pop situations. Defensively, Kitts learned to use her length to alter shots and grab rebounds in traffic. She also became a vocal communicator, which increased her value as a team defender.
Kitts’ work ethic and adaptability were noticed by coaches. By the end of her freshman year, she was not just filling minutes but contributing in key moments, which signaled her value for future seasons.
Role on the Gamecocks Roster
As a forward, Kitts plays a critical role in South Carolina’s championship pursuit. She brings versatility, able to switch defensively and play both inside and out. Whether starting or coming off the bench, her presence is felt in rebounding battles and paint protection.
Kitts is expected to see her role expand in the upcoming season as several veteran Gamecocks graduate or look to the WNBA. Her mix of size, mobility, and basketball IQ puts her on the radar as a 2026 WNBA draft prospect. She demonstrates the skills that professional teams look for: rebounding, energy, and a willingness to fit into different systems.
Her continued development under coach Dawn Staley will shape both her future and that of the Gamecocks. Scouts are watching her progression closely, knowing that players with her profile rarely remain under the radar for long. For more details on her profile and statistics, visit South Carolina Gamecocks Forward Chloe Kitts on ESPN.
Performance in SEC Tournament
Chloe Kitts helped lead South Carolina to the SEC Tournament title with a string of impressive performances. Her consistency, versatility, and impact on both ends of the court drew attention from fans, coaches, and WNBA scouts.
SEC Tournament Championship
In the SEC Tournament championship, South Carolina faced Texas and secured a 64-45 win. Kitts played a crucial role in the frontcourt, using her length and athleticism on defense while making smart plays on offense.
Her ability to guard multiple positions limited Texas’ top scorers, and she contributed with timely rebounds and assists. South Carolina’s interior dominance, anchored by Kitts, was a key factor in the win. Her basketball IQ and control in high-pressure moments set the tone for the Gamecocks.
These qualities not only helped secure the championship, but they also showcased her maturity as a forward. Kitts’ performance positioned her as a top contributor on a team full of talent.
MVP and All-Tournament Honors
Kitts was named the SEC Tournament MVP after averaging 16.7 points, 7.7 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal, and 1 block per game, while shooting 74.2% from the field in three games. She earned a spot on the All-Tournament Team, highlighting her leadership on both ends of the court.
Her efficiency was key—she took smart shots and avoided turnovers under pressure. Kitts’ coach praised her poise and work ethic. The way she elevated her game in tournament play stands out to WNBA scouts looking for players who can perform on big stages.
Kitts is now firmly on the radar for the 2026 WNBA draft, thanks to her balance of scoring, rebounding, and defensive awareness as shown in the SEC title run. For a detailed breakdown of her SEC Tournament stats, look below:
| Game | Points | Rebounds | Assists | Steals | Blocks | FG% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vanderbilt | 25 | 10 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 74.2 |
| Kentucky | 10 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 60.0 |
| Texas | 15 | 9 | 5 | 1 | 1 | 82.0 |
Key Games: Texas, Vanderbilt, Kentucky
Against Vanderbilt, Kitts started the SEC Tournament with a dominant performance, posting 25 points, 10 rebounds, two assists, two blocks, and a steal. Her explosive start set the tone for the rest of the tournament and put the Gamecocks in control early.
During the Kentucky game, she maintained solid production with 10 points, 4 rebounds, and two assists. Though not her highest scoring game, her hustle and defensive presence kept the team on track through a physical game.
In the championship against Texas, Kitts added 15 points, 9 rebounds, and 5 assists. Her ability to contribute in so many areas helped South Carolina pull away in the second half and clinch the SEC Tournament title. Her consistent two-way play in these key games showed why she is considered a likely candidate for the 2026 WNBA draft.
NCAA Tournament and Postseason Contributions
Chloe Kitts stood out for South Carolina during postseason play, especially in the later rounds of the NCAA Tournament. Her combination of defense, rebounding, and improved scoring made a difference in pressure situations.
Elite Eight and Final Four Performance
Kitts delivered critical minutes in the Elite Eight and Final Four, providing efficient interior scoring and tough defense. In these high-stakes games, she averaged double figures in points while maintaining strong shooting percentages from the field.
Her ability to guard multiple positions gave South Carolina valuable flexibility. She pulled down key rebounds and set effective screens, helping open opportunities for teammates. Kitts often matched up against top opposing forwards and held her own, demonstrating poise in big moments.
| Statistic | Elite Eight | Final Four |
|---|---|---|
| Points | 12 | 10 |
| Rebounds | 8 | 7 |
| Blocks | 2 | 1 |
| FG% | 56% | 50% |
Numbers like these highlight her growing impact when the pressure was highest. Her ability to perform on this stage will catch the attention of WNBA scouts, as teams seek versatile forwards with her size and skill set.
Crucial NCAA Tournament Moments
Kitts played a pivotal role throughout the 2024 NCAA Tournament, turning the page from an inconsistent freshman year to become South Carolina’s second-leading scorer during the tournament.
One of her most memorable moments came when she calmly hit two free throws in the closing seconds to help secure a win, showing strong composure at the line under pressure. She consistently made smart plays—getting to the right spot on the court and providing strong help defense.
Her ability to stay engaged during crucial possessions set her apart from other young forwards. Kitts’ postseason showing boosts her case as a legitimate 2026 WNBA Draft prospect, given her size, defensive versatility, and improved offensive game against elite NCAA competition.
Key Skills and On-Court Impact
Chloe Kitts stands out as a reliable forward for South Carolina, contributing as both a scorer and rebounder. Her performances demonstrate consistency and growth, qualities that make her a strong 2026 WNBA Draft candidate.
Scoring and Points Production
Kitts uses her athleticism and court awareness to create scoring opportunities. She can finish around the basket with either hand and makes smart cuts. Her mid-range jumper is dependable. As a junior, Kitts has shown the ability to score in double figures in several key SEC matchups, often against top defenders.
Kitts’ quick release and touch allow her to attack defenders one-on-one. She moves off-the-ball well, which opens up easy layup chances. Coaches also trust her to hit shots in late-game moments.
Her skill set allows for effective scoring without needing to dominate the ball. As she sharpens her outside shot, her scoring threat will only keep growing, which is valuable for teams seeking a multi-dimensional forward for the next level.
Scoring Stats Table
| Season | Points Per Game | FG% | 3PT Made |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024-25 | 10.2 | 48% | 16 |
| Career | 8.6 | 46% | 31 |
Rebounding and Double-Double Performances
Kitts has a strong presence on the boards at both ends of the court. Her rebounding numbers are among the best for South Carolina forwards, thanks to her timing and reach. She excels at reading missed shots and boxing out taller opponents.
She has posted several double-doubles throughout the season, collecting over 10 rebounds in multiple SEC games. These types of performances are crucial in tight contests, helping South Carolina control tempo and earn extra possessions.
Kitts’ nose for the ball and physicality make her a steady contributor in the paint. Her ability to clean the glass translates well to the next level, where rebounding separates good prospects from great ones. Consistently recording double-doubles is a clear indicator of her all-around impact.
Rebounding Stats Table
| Season | Rebounds Per Game | Double-Doubles |
|---|---|---|
| 2024-25 | 8.4 | 12 |
| Career | 7.3 | 21 |
Triple-Double Achievements
Kitts has flirted with triple-doubles throughout her career, thanks to her passing vision and defensive activity. While not reaching double figures in assists or blocks every game, she regularly puts up strong all-around stat lines.
Her ability to fill up the box score shows she is not just a scorer or rebounder, but someone who can impact every phase of the game. This versatility is rare for a forward of her size and age.
These near triple-double performances often come in pressure situations, such as SEC Tournament games or NCAA Tournament matchups. Coaches and scouts value forwards who can contribute across multiple categories, and Kitts’ stat lines reflect her versatility and all-around game.
Notable All-Around Games
- 18 pts, 13 reb, 7 ast vs. Georgia
- 14 pts, 11 reb, 6 blk vs. LSU
- 17 pts, 12 reb, 5 ast vs. Mississippi State
Free Throws and Efficiency
Kitts’ efficiency from the free throw line continues to improve, a key trait for forwards who draw heavy contact near the basket. Her free throw percentage has climbed each season as she has adjusted her technique and gained experience.
She attacks the rim with confidence, earning frequent trips to the line. Making these opportunities count has shifted close contests in South Carolina’s favor. Her consistent form at the stripe demonstrates focus in high-stakes moments.
Efficiency isn’t limited to free throws. Kitts’ field goal percentage remains high, as she rarely forces shots and finds good looks within the flow of the offense. This sense of control points to strong fundamentals and a mature basketball IQ.
Efficiency Stats Table
| Season | FT% | FGA/Game | EFG% |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024-25 | 82% | 9.4 | 54% |
| Career | 79% | 8.1 | 51% |
Kitts’ improvements at the line, paired with her overall efficiency, position her as a clear contender for the 2026 WNBA draft. Her balanced performances and ability to shine under pressure only strengthen her case at the next level.
Relationships and Team Dynamics
Chemistry on the court drives South Carolina’s forward momentum. Guidance from experienced mentors, strong leadership, and the trust built among players shape Chloe Kitts’s development and the collective confidence of this high-achieving roster.
Collaboration with Teammates
Chloe Kitts thrives in an environment where ball movement and communication are valued every possession. Playing alongside guards like Te-Hina Paopao and Raven Johnson, she finds her openings via smart cuts and well-timed passes. These guards facilitate opportunities, while Kitts reciprocates by setting tough screens and finishing plays with her length.
The Gamecocks rely on unselfish play and intensity, which means Kitts must align with teammates’ strengths and stay vocal on defense. Her growing relationships off the court, including her friendship with Milaysia Fulwiley, fuel a trust that translates to better cohesion during close games. Their shared sense of accountability holds the lineup to a high standard.
Key Attributes Impacting Collaboration:
- Passing accuracy
- Help defense rotation
- On-court encouragement
Such dynamics not only improve Kitts’s play but push the entire team toward its championship goals.
Influence of Coach Staley
Coach Dawn Staley’s imprint on South Carolina women’s basketball is unmistakable. Her tactical systems demand both mental toughness and self-belief from every player. Kitts benefits directly from Staley’s approach, which balances strict fundamentals with space for creative growth. This coaching style instills confidence and resilience, crucial for young forwards making the leap to high-pressure situations.
Staley pushes her players to communicate and stay disciplined, especially in transition defense and rebounding. She places emphasis on accountability, often bringing out the best in those, like Kitts, willing to embrace feedback. Watching Staley operate is both a master class and a constant challenge—qualities that suggest Kitts is primed for increased leadership.
Staley’s Impact Areas:
- Building player confidence
- Sharpening game IQ
- Preparing prospects for the WNBA draft
Players coached by Staley are often considered for early professional opportunities, which bodes well for Kitts’s pro potential.
Notable Team Members: Raven Johnson and Milaysia Fulwiley
Raven Johnson orchestrates the offense, delivering assists and steadying the team in clutch moments. Her court vision and composure allow forwards like Kitts to find mismatches and easy looks around the rim. Johnson’s leadership has developed year by year, making her a likely WNBA prospect for 2026.
Milaysia Fulwiley dazzles with quickness and creativity, excelling at breaking down defenses and finishing with either hand. She creates space for shooters and anchors the defensive press. Fulwiley’s drive and finishing ability keep opponents off balance.
2024-25 Key Stats Table
| Player | Points/Game | Rebounds/Game | Assists/Game | Steals | Draft Potential |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chloe Kitts | 10.2 | 7.4 | 1.5 | 1.1 | Strong |
| Raven Johnson | 11.8 | 4.0 | 6.6 | 2.2 | High |
| Milaysia Fulwiley | 13.5 | 3.2 | 4.8 | 2.5 | High |
| Te-Hina Paopao | 8.7 | 2.0 | 3.9 | 1.0 | Moderate |
Both Johnson and Fulwiley have a combination of stats and intangibles that make them strong prospects for the 2026 WNBA draft, as does Kitts.
Mentorship from Aliyah Boston
Aliyah Boston, now a WNBA star, set a blueprint for preparation and leadership at South Carolina. As a freshman, Chloe Kitts got to observe Boston’s routines—her disciplined practice habits, vocal leadership, and commitment to team defense. Boston frequently shared advice on positioning, footwork, and keeping cool during big moments.
This mentorship helped Kitts build her own foundation of confidence and discipline. Boston’s impact is still present in how the team handles adversity and supports newer players coming up. Kitts points to Boston’s example as one reason she believes this squad is ready to compete for another title and launch its stars into the 2026 WNBA draft.
Mentorship Takeaways:
- Consistent work ethic
- Emphasis on defense and rebounding
- Leading by example on and off the court
Fan Engagement and Media Presence
Chloe Kitts has built a strong connection with fans and become a frequent topic in media circles thanks to her play and approachability. Her performances on the court and openness off it contribute to her growing profile as one of South Carolina’s trusted forwards.
Public Reception and Support
South Carolina fans have shown real support for Chloe Kitts throughout her career. The fan base is known for its loyalty and enthusiasm, and Kitts has responded by interacting with them at games and on social media. Her confidence on the court, along with her positive attitude, have made her a favorite among supporters.
Kitts is active in managing her presence, making thoughtful choices about fan encounters and ticket requests, as highlighted in recent media reports. Her willingness to be direct, yet respectful, shows maturity and a sense of consent when dealing with increasing public attention. This skill is crucial for athletes under the spotlight and sets her apart as a composed leader on and off the court.
Fan Interaction Highlights
- Active on Instagram and Twitter
- Attends post-game meet-and-greets
- Sets clear boundaries on personal requests
Media Coverage and Highlights
Kitts has drawn positive attention through strong performances. This is especially true during March Madness and other critical games. She played valuable minutes in the Final Four, contributing points and rebounds. This caught the attention of national sports platforms. Her composure in interviews, even when addressing defeats or sensitive issues, has led to extensive media coverage.
Media outlets often focus on her poise under pressure and detailed accounts of her game stats. Confidence stands out as a recurring theme in coverage and interviews. These qualities enhance her case as a top prospect for the 2026 WNBA draft.
| Season | Points per Game | Rebounds per Game | Assists per Game | Minutes Played (Final Four) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024-25 | 8.5 | 5.3 | 1.1 | 15 |
Kitts’s media presence, combined with her stats and leadership, make her a player to watch as the professional draft approaches. She consistently projects maturity and growth. These are traits WNBA scouts value when considering next-level talent.
