Ashlyn Watkins will play her senior year with the Gamecocks

Ashlyn Watkins is back with the South Carolina women's basketball team. Watkins took the last year off from basketball. In 2026-27, she will return to the program for her senior year.

During the 2025-26 season, Watkins did not play. As a result of a “roller coaster” of a year, she announced in July 2025 that she planned to take a year off from basketball. Following an arrest in August in 2024, she was suspended for the beginning of the 2024-25 season (though all charges were dismissed). She then played 14 games before torn her ACL in January 2025.

She provides South Carolina with a dominant presence on both ends of the floor when she is at her best. In the 2024-25 season, Watkins averaged 7.2 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks. In her sophomore season, Watkins averaged 9.2 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks. 

With her return, Watkins is expected to significantly bolster South Carolina's defense with her shot-blocking ability and rebounding skills. Her presence in the paint will be a critical asset for the team, providing both intimidation and defensive stability. Offensively, her scoring and ability to finish around the rim will add a valuable dimension to the team's attack, helping them compete at a high level.