Injuries are one of the biggest spoilsports for the sporting community. Not only does it create a big roadblock for the players, but more often than not, it leads to a roadmap for an entire team to change. Unfortunately for the South Carolina Gamecocks forward Chloe Kitts, she has to face this reality. In a statement released recently, Chloe Kitts has confirmed the news that she has suffered a torn ACL and would miss the season.

According to reports, the injury occurred during the Gamecocks’ preparation for the upcoming college basketball season. She is expected to have the surgery next week. There were already some rumors about her injury concerns after she was spotted wearing a knee brace. However, no one could have expected it to be the worst-case scenario. This is a massive blow to Dawn Staley’s planning for the coming season as well. Chloe Kitts has been a starter for the past two years and contributed with 10.2 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 1.9 assists.

While her numbers may not be big, her clutch performances at the SEC Tournament and NCAA Birmingham Regional sure were, as she was the MVP in both tournaments. The injury will also have big implications for the 2026 WNBA draft. She was projected to be a first-round pick and was for sure on many teams’ draft boards. However, for now, all the focus would be on her healthy recovery. The fans are certainly doing their part and have shown a lot of support and prayers her way.

Fans’ Reaction to Chloe Kitts’ ACL Injury

A fan commented, “You got this! Lean on your teammates that have been through this same injury. Prayers to you that the surgery and rehab go exactly as planned so that you can get back on the court.” Unfortunately, this is not the first absence because of a major injury the Gamecocks have to deal with this coming season. In January 2025, forward Ashlyn Watkins suffered a torn ACL injury. After missing most of the previous year, Watkins recently announced that she plans to sit out the 2025-26 season. But while it is a setback for the team, Ashlyn and Chloe Kitts can support each other throughout their recovery process.

Another fan sent his prayers and wished her a fast recovery saying, “Prayers for complete healing and restoration Chloe. Gamecock Nation holds you and your indomitable spirit. This will ultimately turn into blessing ♥️🖤”  Showing the same sentiment as the fans, South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley has also sent an encouraging message to Chloe. She said, “We hate this first for Chloe, who has worked incredibly hard to become the best version of herself on the court this season. Her teammates are capable of stepping up, and I know that her competitive fire and tenacity will be felt from the sidelines as she pours what she can into them to ensure our team’s success.”

There were some fans who also agreed with Dawn Staley’s statements about Chloe contributing to the team’s success from the sidelines. One fan commented, “Aye Coach Chloe, we still gone need you. Get well soon from the FAMS.” We have already seen a star player of the team trying to help the team even during a major injury. Indiana Fever’s Caitlin Clark is the biggest example for this. After missing most of the 2025 WNBA season, she was another extension of head coach Stephanie White.

A fan also broke down another way having Chloe Kitts on the sidelines and in the locker room will be beneficial. They commented, “So very sorry for your. Definitely won’t be the same without you. Now pour all your knowledge into the other girls so they can achieve the best you would have given. Remember we are all praying and pulling for you!” Chloe Kitts can help out by guiding the freshman. In the college basketball landscape, the team will always have some rookies. In her absence from the court, Chloe can help them out in navigating the struggles college players face.

There were a few fans who had even predicted Chloe’s comeback to be better than ever. A fan commented, “I hate to hear this. You will be back and better than ever!” As bleak as the situation may seem right now, there are plenty of recent examples of players coming back from devastating injuries better than ever. Take Paige Bueckers for an example. She also suffered multiple serious injuries in her college career. But in her senior season at UConn, she led them to an NCAA championship and we have already seen the record-breaking rookie season she had in the WNBA.

It is undoubtedly very sad news whenever a player goes through a serious injury. But with the advancements in technology, the numbers are good for a full recovery. There is going to be a lot of hard work and patience required, but we are sure that Chloe Kitts will make a full recovery and have a long and healthy career.