South Carolina Gamecocks Head Coach Dawn Staley Says NCAA’s Ashlyn Watkins Ban ‘Out of Control’ Amid WNBA Eligibility Ruling
Columbia, SC – September 28, 2024 — South Carolina Gamecocks head coach Dawn Staley has expressed her frustration after the NCAA’s unexpected decision to prohibit standout player Ashlyn Watkins from entering the WNBA draft. The ruling, which has sent shockwaves across the women’s basketball community, has left many questioning the NCAA’s motivations and policies regarding collegiate athletes transitioning to professional leagues.
In an impassioned statement during a press conference on Friday, Staley didn’t hold back, calling the decision “out of control” and voicing her strong support for Watkins, a rising star with a promising future.
“This is just wrong,” Staley said. “Ashlyn has done everything by the book. She’s put in the work, dominated on the court, and now they’re stripping away her opportunity to play at the highest level. It’s out of control, and the NCAA needs to answer for this.”
The NCAA’s Controversial Ban
The NCAA’s ruling has sparked widespread outrage after it was revealed that Watkins, a key player in South Carolina’s recent success, was officially banned from entering the WNBA. The governing body cited eligibility concerns, stating that Watkins had violated an unspecified technical regulation related to her time in college. The specifics of the ban have not been fully disclosed, but it has left many perplexed and disappointed.
Watkins, a 6’3″ forward, has been pivotal to South Carolina’s success, helping the Gamecocks reach multiple NCAA tournaments and showcasing her elite skills both offensively and defensively. Her performances on the court had made her a top prospect for the WNBA draft, where she was expected to be a first-round pick.
Dawn Staley’s Call for Change
Staley, who has been an advocate for her players’ rights and development, was visibly upset with the decision. She emphasized the potential long-term damage this ruling could have on Watkins’ career, as well as the message it sends to young female athletes who aspire to reach the professional level.
“Players like Ashlyn have dreams of playing in the WNBA, and the NCAA is standing in the way of that,” Staley continued. “This is bigger than just one player — this is about fairness and the future of women’s basketball.”
Staley also questioned the transparency of the NCAA’s decision-making process, calling for greater accountability and a thorough investigation into the matter.
Reactions from the Basketball Community
Watkins’ ban has drawn widespread criticism from players, coaches, and basketball analysts across the country. Many have taken to social media to express their disbelief, while others are calling for reform within the NCAA.
WNBA players, including former Gamecocks standout A’ja Wilson, have voiced their support for Watkins. “This is a major setback for women’s basketball,” Wilson tweeted. “We need answers.”
Watkins herself has yet to make a public statement, but sources close to her have revealed that she is devastated by the ruling and is currently exploring her options, which may include legal action.
What’s Next for Watkins?
While the NCAA’s ruling has thrown a wrench in her WNBA aspirations, Watkins’ future remains uncertain. There is speculation that she may seek international playing opportunities if the ban is upheld, as some athletes in similar situations have done in the past.
As the controversy unfolds, the spotlight remains on the NCAA and its handling of eligibility rules. Whether the organization will reconsider its stance remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the basketball world is rallying around Ashlyn Watkins, demanding justice and transparency.
For now, Coach Dawn Staley and the South Carolina Gamecocks are standing firm, hoping the situation can be resolved in time for Watkins to continue pursuing her dream of playing in the WNBA.
