There’s still a lot that Chloe Kitts can do for the South Carolina team despite being injured. Head coach Dawn Staley recently talked about Kitts’ new role in the team as they go on another dominant run this season.
Kitts tore her ACL in her right knee in October. She was ruled out for the rest of the season, which landed a big blow on the Gamecocks. She was the 2025 SEC Tournament MVP, averaging 10.2 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 1.9 assists while shooting 52% from the field.
Staley’s team would’ve hoped for her to be healthy so she could help them in another championship run. But under the circumstances, Kitts is still doing everything she can to be involved in the team’s process this season.
“Chloe is constantly talking to them and she’s speaking from a player’s perspective, someone that’s been out there…things that we’re not doing,” Staley SAID.
Staley referred to Ta’Niya Latson’s recent comments on Kitts during a postgame interview where she revealed that Kitts checked up on her to understand what wasn’t working for her during games. That’s the leadership quality that makes Kitts a valuable member even when she’s not lacing up for the team.
“If a coach says it then it’s probably taken a little bit differently than a peer,” Staley added. “So, Chloe saying the things that she should be saying as a teammate and being around our players and seeing what’s not taking place, what’s missing, what needs to be added to what we’re doing. So, it’s always good.”
Staley said that Kitts is a competitor who always wants to win and that passion doesn’t take a backseat when she’s injured. It’s still her team, and she still feels the sense of responsibility for the Gamecocks’ success.
Dawn Staley on Joyce Edwards’ Scope for Improvement
The Gamecocks had a blowout 95-55 victory against Penn State, and the dominant performance was led by Joyce Edwards. She registered a career high of 29 points and six steals and added four rebounds, five assists, and four blocks.
Staley was all praise for her star player after the game. She said Edwards is more than just a scorer, and that’s the part of her game that they’re currently working on. Staley understands the potential, and the performance against Penn State was an indication that they’re on the right track.
Despite a career-high performance, Staley pointed out areas where Edwards still needs to work on.
“We want the rebound to be a little better, yes we do but the other stuff, the five assists, no turnovers, six steals, four blocks, that is who she is,” she SAID.
Never settling for anything is an important part of Staley’s coaching style. She always demands more from her players while helping them raise their ceilings. As a result, the Gamecocks are 10-1 this season and remain unbeaten at home.
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