TWO SOUTH CAROLINA GAMECOCKS PLAYERS DRAW ATTENTION AHEAD OF OUTDOOR SHOWDOWN..

🚨 TWO SOUTH CAROLINA GAMECOCKS PLAYERS DRAW ATTENTION AHEAD OF OUTDOOR SHOWDOWN 🏀

Two South Carolina players have emerged as notable storylines as Dawn Staley’s team prepares for its historic outdoor exhibition against College of Charleston.

Ashlyn Watkins and Chloe Kitts are both entering the 2026–27 season while recovering from ACL injuries, making their availability an important part of the Gamecocks’ early-season picture. Staley has indicated that the team is managing its players carefully during preseason preparations.

The Gamecocks are scheduled to face College of Charleston at Credit One Stadium in Charleston on September 27. The exhibition will be South Carolina women’s basketball’s first outdoor game, with the basketball court being constructed over the stadium’s usual tennis courts.

Weather and court conditions are also being monitored closely because the game will be played outdoors. Staley has emphasized that player safety will be central when evaluating the playing surface.

With the new season approaching, attention will remain on the recovering players, the rest of Staley’s 15-player roster and how South Carolina handles the unusual outdoor setting.