In a moment that will be etched in college basketball history, South Carolina Gamecocks forward Ashlyn Watkins has been awarded the prestigious Oscar Robertson Trophy, recognizing her as the nation’s top collegiate basketball player for 2025. The announcement came earlier today from the U.S. Basketball Writers Association (USBWA), marking a milestone not only for Watkins’ career but also for the powerhouse South Carolina program.
A Season of Dominance
Watkins, a 6’3” junior from Columbia, South Carolina, has been an unstoppable force on the court throughout the 2024–25 season. Known for her jaw-dropping athleticism, shot-blocking prowess, and rim-rattling dunks—yes, dunks—Watkins has redefined expectations for women’s college basketball players.
This season, she averaged 19.7 points, 11.4 rebounds, 3.2 blocks, and 2.1 steals per game, leading the Gamecocks to a dominant run in the SEC and a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament. Her explosive style of play drew comparisons to legends of the game, while her leadership and consistency earned her the respect of coaches and analysts nationwide.
Breaking Barriers and Records
What makes Watkins’ journey even more compelling is how she has continually broken barriers. She gained national attention in 2022 by becoming the first woman in South Carolina program history to complete an in-game dunk. Since then, she has thrown down several more, energizing crowds and inspiring a new generation of players.
Her Oscar Robertson win marks the first time a South Carolina women’s player has taken home this honor, which was previously only awarded to male athletes until it was expanded in 2023 to recognize the top player in both men’s and women’s Division I basketball.
Gamecock Legacy
Watkins’ achievement further solidifies the Gamecocks’ legacy as a collegiate basketball dynasty under head coach Dawn Staley. With players like A’ja Wilson and Aliyah Boston paving the way, Watkins now joins the elite ranks of South Carolina greats while carving out a legacy all her own.
Coach Staley, visibly emotional during the press conference, said:
“Ashlyn is one of the most electrifying talents I’ve ever coached. But it’s her work ethic, her heart, and her humility that truly set her apart. This honor is well deserved, and we couldn’t be prouder.”
What’s Next?
With the WNBA Draft on the horizon, speculation swirls about Watkins’ professional future. She has not yet announced whether she will declare early or return for her senior season, but one thing is certain—her impact on the game is already monumental.
As the 2025 Oscar Robertson Trophy winner, Ashlyn Watkins has not only made history—she’s changed the game.
