The name Chloe Kitts has become synonymous with rising talent and impactful play in the world of collegiate women’s basketball. From her early days as a highly touted recruit to her pivotal role in one of the most dominant programs in the nation, Kitts has consistently demonstrated a blend of skill, determination, and resilience that sets her apart. 

Who is Chloe Kitts? Defining a Collegiate Force

Chloe Kitts is an American collegiate basketball player, currently a forward for the South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball team. Born on August 5, 2004, Kitts quickly emerged as a formidable talent in the sport, known for her strong presence in the paint, rebounding prowess, and developing offensive game. Her journey from high school standout to a key contributor on a national championship-contending team highlights her dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence.

The Early Chapters: Foundation and Development

Chloe Kitts’ basketball journey began in Puyallup, Washington, where she was born to Jason and Krystle Kitts. The family later relocated to Oviedo, Florida, when Chloe was in the third grade, a move that proved significant in shaping her basketball career. This geographical shift provided her with new opportunities and exposure to a highly competitive basketball environment.

Collegiate Career: Making Her Mark at South Carolina

Chloe Kitts’ transition to collegiate basketball at South Carolina began on December 18, 2022, where she immediately showcased her potential with 10 points and seven rebounds in a dominant victory against Charleston Southern. Her freshman year saw her averaging 1.6 points per game, gaining valuable experience within the highly competitive SEC conference.

The Breakthrough Season: 2023-2024 (and into 2025)

The 2023-2024 season marked a significant turning point in Chloe Kitts’ collegiate career. She secured a starting position and became a consistent force for the Gamecocks, demonstrating remarkable improvement in her offensive game and establishing herself as a reliable rebounder. 

Her averages for this period hovered around nine points and 5.8 rebounds per game, with an impressive 53% shooting percentage from the field. This consistent performance was crucial for South Carolina’s continued dominance.

A pivotal moment came when Kitts achieved a double-double in the national championship game against Iowa, a testament to her ability to perform under immense pressure on the sport’s biggest stage. This game, and her overall performance throughout the season, cemented her status as a key player for the Gamecocks.

As of the 2024-2025 season, Chloe Kitts has continued to elevate her game. Reports indicate she is averaging around 10.1 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game, with a shooting percentage of 52.9% from the field and 82.4% from the free-throw line. While her three-point shooting stands at 29.4%, her overall impact on the court is undeniable. 

Her ability to contribute significantly in scoring, rebounding, and facilitating has been vital to South Carolina’s sustained success, including their fifth consecutive Final Four appearance in 2025. Her leadership and improved statistical output highlight her growth and impact on the team’s championship aspirations.

International Success

Beyond her collegiate achievements, Chloe Kitts has also represented the United States on the international stage with distinction. She has earned two gold medals with Team USA:

2022 FIBA U18 Women’s Americas Championship: Kitts was part of the gold-medal-winning team, contributing to their dominant performance. She averaged 7.7 points and 5.8 rebounds during this tournament.

2023 FIBA U19 Women’s World Cup: Continuing her international success, Kitts helped the U19 team secure another gold medal. In the final match against Spain, she notably scored 15 points and grabbed nine rebounds, showcasing her ability to perform in high-stakes international competition. Her overall average for this event was 10.7 points and 8 rebounds.

These international experiences have undoubtedly contributed to her development, allowing her to compete against top talent from around the globe and further refine her skills.

The Chloe Kitts Playing Style: Inside the Game

Chloe Kitts is primarily known as a forward, utilizing her 6’3″ frame to her advantage in the paint. Her playing style is characterized by:

Rebounding Prowess: Kitts is an excellent rebounder, consistently crashing the boards on both ends of the court. Her ability to secure offensive rebounds creates second-chance opportunities for her team, while her defensive rebounding helps limit opponents’ possessions.

Interior Scoring: She possesses a developing offensive game, particularly around the basket. She can finish strong through contact and has shown an increasing range of post moves.

Defensive Presence: Her length and athleticism allow her to be a disruptive force on defense, contesting shots and contributing to her team’s overall defensive scheme.

Team Player: Kitts plays within the team’s system, understanding her role and contributing to the collective success. Her assist numbers, which have increased in recent seasons, indicate her growing ability to facilitate offense from the post.

How Chloe Kitts Prepares: Mental and Physical Fortitude

The demanding nature of collegiate basketball requires not only physical talent but also immense mental strength. Chloe Kitts has been open about her strategies for managing the pressures of high-level competition. She has shared that she uses a unique routine to ease her pregame nerves, which includes:

These practices, developed with the help of her therapist, highlight her commitment to mental well-being and her proactive approach to managing the inherent pressures of being a high-profile athlete. This speaks volumes about her self-awareness and dedication to performing at her best.

Practical Tips for Aspiring Athletes from Chloe Kitts’ Journey

Embrace the Process: Success isn’t always linear. There will be ups and downs, as Kitts experienced from her freshman to sophomore year. Focus on consistent effort and growth.

Find Your Calm: Learn what helps you manage pressure and anxiety. Whether it’s a unique ritual like coloring or a more conventional approach like meditation, mental preparation is crucial.

Seek Out Strong Competition: Playing against the best helps you get better. Kitts actively sought out highly competitive environments, from her high school choices to joining a top-tier collegiate program.

Be Coachable: A willingness to learn and adapt from coaches is fundamental. Her development under Coach Dawn Staley is a testament to her coachability.

Build a Support System: Kitts has spoken about the importance of her family and therapist. Surround yourself with people who support your goals and well-being.

Understand Your Role: In team sports, contributing to the collective success is paramount. Kitts has excelled by understanding and embracing her role within the Gamecocks’ system.

Stay Grounded: Despite the spotlight and success, maintaining a humble and dedicated approach, as Kitts does, is key to long-term achievement.

Real-Life Examples of Chloe Kitts’ Impact

Game-Changing Rebounding: In a crucial SEC matchup in the 2024-2025 season, Kitts pulled down 15 rebounds, including several offensive boards in the fourth quarter, directly leading to critical second-chance points that swung momentum in South Carolina’s favor. This exemplifies her immediate impact on the stat sheet and the game’s flow.

Stepping Up in Big Moments: Her double-double in the national championship game against Iowa showcases her ability to perform under the highest pressure. This performance wasn’t just about statistics; it was about her composure and effectiveness when it mattered most.

Defensive Anchoring: During a challenging defensive stretch in a tournament game, Kitts’ rim protection and ability to alter shots stifled an opponent’s run, allowing South Carolina to regain control. This highlights her defensive versatility and impact beyond just scoring.

NIL Community Engagement: Through her partnership with Carolina Rise, Kitts has participated in community events and initiatives, connecting directly with fans and giving back to the local community that supports her team. This demonstrates the positive social impact of NIL deals when managed responsibly.

Public Advocacy for Mental Health: Her openness about pregame anxiety and the use of coloring books has resonated with many, destigmatizing mental health discussions in sports and offering a relatable example for young athletes facing similar pressures.

FAQ

What is Chloe Kitts’ primary position on the basketball court?

Chloe Kitts primarily plays as a forward for the South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball team. Her versatility allows her to contribute both in the paint and sometimes from the perimeter.

What are some of Chloe Kitts’ most significant achievements to date?

Chloe Kitts has achieved significant success, including securing a starting position for the South Carolina Gamecocks, achieving a double-double in a national championship game, and winning two gold medals with Team USA at the 2022 FIBA U18 Women’s Americas Championship and the 2023 FIBA U19 Women’s World Cup. She has also signed several notable NIL endorsement deals.

How does Chloe Kitts manage pregame nerves?

Chloe Kitts has revealed that she uses unique techniques to manage pregame anxiety. She engages in coloring children’s books and uses headphones (without music) to help calm her mind and focus before games. These strategies were developed with the assistance of her therapist.

Final Thoughts

Chloe Kitts represents the exciting future of women’s basketball. Her journey, marked by early talent, strategic development, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, showcases the dedication required to succeed at the highest levels of collegiate sports. 

Beyond her impressive statistics and growing list of achievements, her commitment to mental well-being and her ability to perform under pressure distinguish her as a truly impactful athlete. 

As she continues to evolve and build upon her already remarkable career, Chloe Kitts is undoubtedly a name that will remain prominent in the basketball world, inspiring countless aspiring players with her skill, resilience, and unwavering passion for the game. 

Her story serves as a powerful reminder that success is a blend of natural ability, rigorous training, and a strong, well-supported mindset.

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