**South Carolina’s Ashlyn Watkins’ Suspension Lifted Following Arrest**
South Carolina player has had her suspension lifted following her arrest on Saturday morning, according to a report from WIS-TV citing reliable sources. Watkins, who faces charges of first-degree assault and kidnapping after an incident at a USC housing and retail center, was initially suspended in line with athletic department policy.
The nature of the lifted suspension—whether it was related to university or team activities—has not been clarified. USC has not provided further details, only acknowledging the situation through a spokesperson who confirmed they were collecting information. The spokesperson had no additional comments when contacted on Wednesday.
Watkins’ father, Vancito Watkins, initially announced the lifting of the suspension on Facebook, but the post has since been removed. He did not respond to requests for further information. Watkins’ attorney, state Representative Todd Rutherford, was also unavailable for comment on Wednesday.
The police incident report revealed that the altercation began with an argument between Watkins and the victim, who was reportedly trying to distance herself from Watkins. The confrontation escalated, leading to the victim pulling a fire alarm and subsequently receiving medical attention for non-life-threatening injuries.
Watkins has been granted a $30,000 personal recognizance bond with conditions, including no contact with the victim and maintaining a distance of 1,000 yards from her. Watkins, a key player for the 2024 national championship-winning Gamecocks, is known for her defensive prowess and had previously earned accolades such as the Gatorade Player of the Year award in high school.
