The defending champions are gearing up for another epic season, and they’ve just regained who could be a key. After months of uncertainty and a legal battle, forward Ashlyn Watkins is finally back in action. And if there’s one thing that’s crystal clear, it’s that head coach Dawn Staley is ready to stand by her. 

With the 21-year-old now eligible to hit the court again, the Carolina HC had a few choices of words that made it known loudly and clearly. “Ashlyn will be who she is,” Staley told Columbia Sports Director for WACH FOX when he asked what she would advise the athlete to deal with people’s reactions. 

The coach added, “She has created some really good habits. You know, you saw her make a terrible mistake. If she could do it all over again, she would do it again.” But Staley highlights she has a solid support system that includes her teammates, coaches, and family.

Hence, the coach thinks, “People are going to be people and she is gonna ignore them.” And if things get out of hand, Staley boldly added, “I’m gonna take it up for her. That’s what we are supposed to do.” Now, that’s a coach who’s not afraid to show up for her players, and she has done it before.

Remember the time she stood up for her team after Huskies coach Geno Auriemma attacked the Gamecocks after an 81-77 victory?

But truly, it was a rough couple of months for the Gamecocks star. Back in August, she was arrested on some serious charges: as-ault, ba-tery, and ki-napping. According to a police report filed that day, Watkins allegedly “forcefully grabbed” the victim and even carried them against their will. With charges like these, the university suspended the hooper from all team activities, and she was noticeably absent from key events, including a celebratory trip to the White House for the Gamecocks’ national title win. 

Then on November 1, Watkins finally got the news she was hoping for. The charges against her were dismissed and marked as “Dismissed Not Indicted,” according to the public index. A day later, South Carolina announced that Watkins would rejoin her teammates for practice.

 In their statement, the Gamecocks shared, “With the dismissal of the legal charges, South Carolina junior forward Ashlyn Watkins has returned to team activities beginning with practice today.” And now, it’s time for the 6’3 forward to shine in a role left by none other than Kamilla Cardoso. 

Will Ashlyn Watkins step Into Cardoso’s shoes as Dawn Staley & Co. aim to defend their title?

Last season, Cardoso was on fire. She blocked 82 shots throughout the season and averaged 14.4 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 2 assists per game, leading the team in all statistical categories. 

Now, Watkins, with her 9.2 points, 7.4 rebounds, and SEC-best 91 blocks, is the ideal player to step into that role. And with Watkins’ ability to defend the rim and contribute offensively, there’s no doubt she’ll be the inside presence the Gamecocks need to stay dominant.

But her first big test will be a must-watch. A showdown against the No. 9 NC State Wolfpack. Set for Sunday at 3 p.m. ET, this matchup will be the 2024 NCAA Champions first game back, and it’s no cakewalk. The Gamecocks have an intense rivalry with NC State, dating back to their national semifinal face-off in April. 

South Carolina triumphed in that matchup, winning 78-59, but NC State isn’t to be underestimated. Led by standout guards Aziaha James, Saniya Rivers, and Madison Hayes, the Wolfpack boasts an experienced perimeter lineup and won’t go down easily.

If Watkins can bring her usual intensity — blocking shots, grabbing rebounds, and locking down the paint — Gamecocks might just find the edge they need. With her coach on her side, can she make a statement and prove herself?