Prior to South Carolina's women's March Madness win over Texas in the Final Four, junior Chloe Kitts' dad, Jason, said that Chloe went to the Gamecocks for a reason.
There was no doubt in his mind that South Carolina — consistently — would be in women's college basketball's biggest stage. The 2025 run to the big dance was just a little more special, however, with the Final Four just a couple hours away from home in Tampa.
Kitts, who is from Oviedo and played at a couple different high schools in Florida before going to South Carolina, has repeatedly said throughout the week that it's been "amazing" playing close to home. That allows more friends and family, potentially, to be in attendance.
Kitts played high school ball at both The Master's Academy in Oviedo before transferring to DME Academy in Daytona Beach.
On Friday, at least, both Jason and Krystle Kitts were in attendance among dozens of other South Carolina families.
"The way we operate, we know where we’re going to stay with the team hotel. We’re always planning for this moment. Regional — already handled. First round — already handled. And then we plan to be here (at the Final Four) every year," Jason said on Friday. "We’re here for a reason. She came to South Carolina for a reason. We wanted this opportunity for her.”
"It’s an hour-and-a-half from my home area. It’s great that my friends get to come," Chloe said during South Carolina's media availability on Saturday. "It’s super fun and they’re all very supportive.”
South Carolina is looking to repeat as national champions, taking on UConn on Sunday at Amalie Arena in Tampa. The Huskies, who haven't won the title game since 2016, are looking for their 12th championship in program history.
"I just feel like we're ready," Kitts said. "We just want to win.”
Kitts played 15 minutes in South Carolina's Final Four game against Texas on Friday, scoring six points with three rebounds. She got into foul trouble late, but by that point the game had already been decided.
In last year's championship game, Kitts scored 11 minutes with 10 rebounds
Topics in this Story
