**Chloe Kitts Explains Decision to Decommit from South Carolina, Commit to Duke Women’s Basketball**
The world of college basketball recruiting is always full of surprises, and one of the most talked-about moves in recent weeks has been Chloe Kitts’ decision to decommit from the University of South Carolina and instead commit to Duke University. For many fans, this was a shocking shift—Kitts had been a key part of South Carolina’s top-ranked recruiting class, a program that has dominated women’s college basketball under legendary coach Dawn Staley. So, why would a player walk away from a perennial championship contender to join a Duke program that, while prestigious, hasn’t reached the same heights in recent years? In an exclusive interview, Kitts opened up about her choice, detailing the factors that led her to change her mind and embrace a new path in Durham.
Kitts, a highly skilled 6’2” forward from Oviedo, Florida, was one of the most sought-after recruits in the 2023 class. Known for her versatility, athleticism, and high basketball IQ, she had long been considered a perfect fit for South Carolina’s system—a program that thrives on strong post play, defensive intensity, and a winning culture. When she initially committed to the Gamecocks, it seemed like a match made in basketball heaven. However, as time passed, Kitts began to reassess her decision.
One of the biggest factors in her change of heart was the relationship she built with Duke’s new head coach, Kara Lawson. A former WNBA champion and Olympic gold medalist, Lawson took over the Blue Devils’ program in 2020 and has been working to restore Duke to its former glory. For Kitts, Lawson’s vision for the team—and her belief in how Kitts could thrive in that system—was a major selling point. “Coach Lawson has this incredible energy and knowledge of the game,” Kitts explained. “She didn’t just talk about winning; she talked about developing me as a player and a person. She sees me as more than just a post player—she wants me to expand my game, handle the ball, shoot from outside, and really become a complete player. That was something I couldn’t ignore.”
Another key element in Kitts’ decision was the opportunity to be part of a program on the rise. While Duke hasn’t been in the national championship conversation as consistently as South Carolina in recent years, Lawson has been assembling a talented roster with a mix of experienced veterans and high-potential young players. Kitts saw a chance to be a cornerstone of Duke’s resurgence. “I want to help build something special,” she said. “At South Carolina, I would’ve been another great player in an already stacked lineup. At Duke, I can be a leader, someone who helps take the program to the next level. That challenge really excites me.”
Family and personal comfort also played a role in Kitts’ choice. While South Carolina’s campus and fanbase are undeniably electric, she admitted that the pressure of joining a team with sky-high expectations every season was something she had to consider. “Don’t get me wrong—I love competition, and I know Duke has high expectations too,” she said. “But there’s a different kind of pressure when you’re at a place where anything less than a national title is seen as a disappointment. I thought about where I’d grow the most, both on and off the court, and Duke just felt like the right place for me.”
Kitts also emphasized the academic opportunities at Duke as a major factor. Known for its elite academics, Duke offers student-athletes a chance to compete at the highest level while also preparing for life after basketball. “Basketball won’t last forever,” Kitts noted. “I wanted a school where I could get an amazing education and set myself up for success, no matter what happens in my career. Duke checks every box in that regard.”
Of course, leaving South Carolina wasn’t an easy choice. Kitts had built strong relationships with the coaching staff and several of her future teammates, and she has nothing but respect for what Coach Staley has built. “That program is incredible, and I have so much love for everyone there,” she said. “This wasn’t about anything negative with South Carolina—it was about what felt right for me at this point in my journey.”
For Duke, landing a player of Kitts’ caliber is a major statement. Her commitment signals that Lawson’s vision is resonating with elite recruits, and it could pave the way for more top-tier talent to follow. For Kitts, the decision represents a leap of faith—a belief that she can help shape the future of a program while reaching her own full potential.
As she prepares for the next chapter, Kitts is focused on the work ahead. “I know people might be surprised by my choice, but I’m confident in it,” she said. “I can’t wait to get to Duke, compete with my new teammates, and show everyone what this team is capable of.”
Only time will tell how this decision plays out on the court, but one thing is certain: Chloe Kitts is betting on herself—and Duke women’s basketball just got a whole lot more interesting.
