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South Carolina Gamecocks star Ashlyn Watkins has officially rejoined her team. Following a difficult few months, the university announced Watkins’ return to practice on Wednesday, November 5. This came after legal charges against Watkins were dismissed on November 1, a decision reported by Lulu Kesin from Greenville News.

The news generated support for Watkins from fans who took to social media to express their excitement. A video, featuring Dawn Staley and the basketball team, was shared on Instagram on November 10. It was an uplifting message for the South Carolina soccer team. It was captioned,

“Hey @gamecockwsoccer, we already know what’s coming today.”

Many of Watkins’ fans shared their excitement to see her present in the video. One said, “Ash! We love you girl!”

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Let’s see more of such fans’ comments under the post.

One of her fans made their happiness obvious by saying, “Ashlyn’s backkk its GAME OVER”

Another fan expressed their emotion right after sporting Watkins, “Awww I see Ashlyn!!! Welcome back!”

Some other fans thanked God for her coming back, “GOD IS GOOOD!!! Ashlyn back so happy”

Another fan wished luck to both Watkins and the team, “ASHHHHHHHHH!!! and good luck women’s soccer”

Some other fans expressed the desire for the team to play, “Can’t wait to see yall! On our way from VA”

Ashlyn Watkins fans’ excited comments (Picture Credit: Instagram)

Dawn Staley expressed her emotions on Ashlyn Watkins’ comeback

Head coach Dawn Staley addressed the media on Friday, November 8, 2024, for the first time since Watkins’ return. It was ahead of the Gamecocks’ upcoming game against NC State. Staley shared her excitement about having a complete roster once again.

“We’re at our very best when we got our full roster, especially healthy,” Staley said. “I mean, it feels good, I mean, it feels natural, it doesn’t feel unnatural to us. It feels like we’re complete now.”

Watkins is gradually getting back into the team’s routine after missing the preseason and the beginning of the season due to legal issues. She could be seen participating in workouts with her teammates during a media session on Friday.

Watkins’ return follows a resolution of legal charges stemming from an incident on August 31 at the campus housing facility 650 Lincoln. According to arrest warrants, Watkins was charged with assault and kidnapping after allegedly “forcefully grabbing [the victim’s] face, pulling her by her arms, and pushing her.”

However, records show that these charges were dismissed on November 1, following Watkins’ completion of a Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) program. PTI is an option for first-time offenders that allows them to avoid formal charges if they complete certain court-ordered requirements. This legal resolution paved the way for Watkins to return to practice and rejoin her team.

Watkins, a junior forward last season, led the Southeastern Conference with 91 blocks. The Columbia native maintained a strong performance with an average of 9.2 points and 7.4 rebounds per game. Her accomplishments also position her as a top prospect for the 2026 WNBA Draft, with many projecting her as a potential top-three pick.