Gamecocks’ Ashlyn Watkins Arrested, Charged With Assault, Kidnapping

Updated: September 1, 2024

Columbia, S.C. – Ashlyn Watkins, a standout player for the University of South Carolina (USC) women’s basketball team, was arrested and charged with first-degree assault and battery and kidnapping on Saturday, August 31, 2024. The program spokesperson stated they were aware of the incident and in the process of gathering more information.

Details of the Incident

According to the online judicial records, Watkins had a bond hearing at 2 p.m. on the day of her arrest. She is scheduled for a court date on October 25, 2024, and was released on a $30,000 personal recognizance bond after the hearing.

Watkins allegedly ​”forcefully” grabbed the victim, pulled her arms, and pushed her at a student housing center where all basketball players reside. The reports reveal that she even picked up the victim against her will and carried her down the hallway, preventing her from leaving – behavior that can be classified as kidnapping. The victim narrowly managed to escape and pulled a fire alarm. She received medical attention for non-life-threatening injuries shortly after the incident.

Watkins’ Statement

After the incident, Watkins was read her Miranda rights and, according to the warrant, she confessed. This development has stunned fans and her teammates alike, considering Watkins, a junior, was prominently contributing to the team’s success over the last two seasons.

Watkins’ Basketball Career

Native to Columbia, Watkins graduated from Cardinal Newman High School. Known for her dunking ability and game-dominating presence, Watkins had joined the Gamecocks’ team for the past two seasons and played a significant role in South Carolina’s third national championship.

An Uncertain Future

At present, it remains unclear whether Watkins will be suspended from the basketball program. A USC spokesperson mentioned that the university’s policy of automatically suspending an athlete from their program upon an arrest is still active.

Awaiting Further Updates

As the investigation into the incident continues, it casts a shadow over what was shaping up to be a promising season for the Gamecocks and Watkins. Fans, fellow athletes, and the USC community as a whole now await further updates and clarity surrounding the situation.