COLUMBIA, S.C. — Ashlyn Watkins has rejoined the No. 1 ranked South Carolina team following a suspension and is anticipated to participate in the upcoming matchup against No. 9 N.C. State this Sunday.
Gamecocks head coach Dawn Staley mentioned that the 6-foot-3 forward, known for her dynamic playing style and impressive defensive skills, has performed well in her initial practices after returning from a suspension that lasted over two months. Last season, Watkins led the Southeastern Conference with an impressive total of 91 blocked shots.
Watkins faced serious charges on August 31, including assault and kidnapping, which led to her suspension from all team-related activities. However, following the dismissal of these charges on November 1, she was reinstated to the roster on Wednesday.
Staley expressed her intention to help Watkins readjust to the team environment before allowing her a chance to publicly address the incidents surrounding her suspension. When asked about Watkins’ potential participation against the Wolfpack, Staley confirmed, “If she’s out here, she’s going to play,” later clarifying that Watkins would likely come off the bench, a role she has occupied throughout much of the past two seasons behind established starters.
Originally, Watkins was expected to fill the position vacated by Kamilla Cardoso, who was a key player last season and initially led the team in scoring and rebounding before being selected in the first round of the WNBA draft by the Chicago Sky. Her playing time has been put on hold due to her legal troubles, and this hiatus also meant she could not participate in significant events like the team visit to the White House to celebrate their NCAA championship slotted for September.
In addition to her absence from the White House visit, Watkins missed an exhibition game held in Memphis last month. Nevertheless, Staley noted that Watkins is on track to clear her charges after completing a pre-trial intervention program designed for first-time offenders, which aims to provide opportunities for rehabilitation and deter future legal issues.
Despite the time away from competitive play, Watkins seems to have retained her exceptional skills. Observations from practice indicated that she successfully showcased her athleticism and presence in the paint, even making multiple outside shots during individual workouts while practice was winding down.
“She looks great,” Staley commented, a promising sign for the Gamecocks, who narrowly defeated Michigan 68-62 in their season opener in Las Vegas. Last season, the Gamecocks finished third in the NCAA for rebounding margin, but they found themselves tied with the Wolverines in rebounds during their last game.
Watkins, a former all-SEC second team honoree, is expected to make a significant impact upon her return. In addition to her impressive block statistics, she achieved a remarkable defensive rating, placing her among the best in the nation.
Her offensive prowess also stands out, as she holds the distinction of being the first player to record dunks in the program’s history, accomplishing this feat against Clemson as a freshman and again against Kentucky the previous January.
As she reintegrates with her teammates, Watkins has brought a renewed energy to the squad, which previously enjoyed an undefeated Division I season. Point guard Raven Johnson expressed how crucial Watkins’ presence is, saying, “It’s amazing; her presence is just so big, like just the stuff she does. We need her.”
Staley is aware of the potential negative reactions Watkins may face from rival fans but hopes for some understanding in her player’s journey. If challenges arise, she believes Watkins has the resilience to handle it and perform at her best, as she has done over the past seasons. “Mentally, she’s in a good place,” Staley noted. “She made a terrible mistake that if she could do it over again, she wouldn’t… She’s got teammates, she’s got coaches, she’s got a support system. She’s got family.”