South Carolina starting forward Chloe Kitts out vs NC State due to academic policy issue

Posted by Admin November 10, 2024 Basketball

CHARLOTTE — South Carolina women’s basketball starting forward Chloe Kitts is out for Saturday’s game against NC State.

Minutes before the Gamecocks (1-0) took the floor to face the Wolfpack (1-0), the team revealed on X, formerly known as Twitter, that Kitts will not play due to an academic policy issue.

Coach Dawn Staley released a statement in the social media post.

“We’re disappointed that Chloe has to sit out the game today due to an academic policy issue,” Staley said. “Chloe has shown tremendous growth both academically and athletically over the offseason, demonstrating her commitment to excellence in every aspect. While she’s unable to play today, we’re incredibly proud of her progress.”

Kitts started 31 of 37 games last year, and on Monday in the season opener, was the leading scorer with 19 points and 14 rebounds.

Sania Feagin remained in the starting lineup, and freshman Joyce Edwards made her first start, replacing Kitts. The usual trio of guards for South Carolina started Saturday.

Junior forward Ashlyn Watkins, who was suspended from Aug. 31 until Wednesday, makes her return to the court against NC State, but Staley wasn’t open about how much she would play ahead of tipoff.

Lulu Kesin covers South Carolina athletics for The Greenville News and the USA TODAY Network. Email her at lkesin@gannett.com and follow her on X, formerly known as Twitter, @Lulukesin