Turbulent times have continued to shadow Ashlyn Watkins, the star forward for the South Carolina Gamecocks, as her career seems to have hit a rough patch this year. Trouble has consistently followed her, adding strain to both her and the team. The aftermath of a felony last year has had a significant impact on her performance and the Gamecocks’ overall success.
What Went Wrong with Ashlyn Watkins?
Ashlyn made a remarkable entrance into the 2023 season, posting an impressive average of 7.2 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game. She even achieved a standout performance with a 11/11 double-double in just 21 minutes against Missouri, just days before her January 2025 injury.
Unfortunately, during a critical game against Mississippi State, Watkins tore her ACL in the second quarter, forcing her to miss the remainder of the season. Her absence was keenly felt by the Gamecocks, who lost a key player known for her rebounding, shot-blocking, and defensive dominance.
To make matters worse, South Carolina’s head coach, Dawn Staley, dashed any remaining hopes for a speedy recovery and a return to the court for Watkins. While Staley confirmed that Watkins is off crutches and progressing, she acknowledged that it will be a long road before Watkins is fully healthy again. Staley hinted that Watkins’ likely return would be in the next season, saying, “Her journey back will probably get her back into a real flow.”
Will South Carolina Go Forward Without Watkins?
Unfortunately, the Gamecocks have had to continue without Watkins, but they’re not short of praise for the standout defender. Staley expressed how much the team misses her, particularly her rebounding prowess. However, she also praised the team’s achievement in making it to the Final Four of the 2024-25 season without one of their top players.
Staley subtly celebrated this milestone, even if the team doesn’t frequently acknowledge it. “We’re a program that when we sustain a loss like that, we’re not hung up on that… because there’s nothing we can do about it. The fact we’re here without her is quite an incredible feat that is probably not talked about a whole lot—because we don’t talk about it a whole lot,” she said.
Ashlyn Watkins Accepts Her Fate
Watching her team advance to the finals while sidelined is undoubtedly painful for Watkins. Despite undergoing knee surgery, she attended every practice session and supported her teammates through their journey to the Final Four.
She traveled with the team to Birmingham and Tampa, offering guidance and support from the sidelines. Her leadership has become an invaluable asset to the team as she continues to encourage and direct her teammates.
“I remember her screaming at Joyce (Edwards) one time like, ‘Joyce, you need to pick it up!’… When Ash first got here, she was as quiet as a mouse. She wouldn’t say anything to anybody. So she’s really developed,” said Raven Johnson, speaking about Watkins’ transformation.
The question now is whether Watkins will be granted a medical redshirt waiver for the season or if she’ll regain her former vigor and finish the season on a personal high. As of now, she remains on the sidelines for the 2025 NCAA tournament finals, with her future still uncertain.
