Ashlyn Watkins delivered an unforgettable moment in women’s basketball during the South Carolina Gamecocks’ matchup against TCU, electrifying a packed Dickies Arena with a powerful dunk late in the first quarter.
After her initial layup was blocked by Sedona Prince, Watkins rebounded with grit, stealing the ball from Madison Conner and sprinting down the court.
With Prince in pursuit, Watkins soared for an emphatic right-handed slam that sent the arena’s 14,000 fans into a frenzy.
Coach Dawn Staley captured the energy of the moment:
“The place exploded, our bench exploded. And I think it’s great for our game.”
The dunk not only highlighted Watkins’ athleticism but also underscored her growing influence in elevating women’s basketball.
A Legacy of High-Flying Feats
Watkins is no stranger to making history. As a freshman, she stunned fans with a dunk against Clemson, followed by another spectacular slam against Kentucky.
Even before joining South Carolina, she earned national attention by winning the McDonald’s All-American dunk contest, outshining male competitors. However, her TCU dunk—executed in a high-stakes game before a roaring crowd—cements her place as a game-changer.
Answering Coach Staley’s Call
The dunk comes on the heels of a public challenge from Coach Staley, who recently urged Watkins to harness her potential and take her game to the next level.
“We need more from Ash,” Staley remarked after a November victory over East Carolina. Watkins’ high-flying response against TCU proved she’s ready to rise to that challenge, showcasing her resilience, determination, and ability to dominate under pressure.
Changing the Narrative in Women’s Basketball
Dunks remain a rarity in women’s basketball, making Watkins’ feats even more significant. Her ability to soar above the rim is redefining expectations and inspiring a new generation of athletes to dream bigger.
Moments like these aren’t just highlights—they’re pivotal in transforming perceptions of women’s sports.
As Watkins continues to elevate her game, her future in the WNBA looks promising.
With her unique combination of athleticism, power, and determination, she is poised to leave a lasting legacy, paving the way for a more dynamic and inclusive future in basketball.
