Ashlyn Watkins Basketball Star Charged: Assault and Kidnapping Incident

Ashlyn Watkins Basketball Incident Overview

South Carolina national championship-winning forward Ashlyn Watkins was arrested Saturday on charges of assault and battery and kidnapping. Online judicial records for Richland County show that Watkins was granted a $30,000 personal recognizance bond. She was ordered to have no direct or indirect contact with the victim, who was not named in the records.

Details of the Charges Against Ashlyn Watkins

The warrant filed by the University of South Carolina Police Department stated that Watkins assaulted the victim by forcefully grabbing her face, pulling her arms, and pushing. Witness accounts suggest that Watkins picked up the victim against her will. After the incident, the victim managed to escape and pulled a fire alarm, prompting a response from police and fire personnel.

• Injuries Not Life-Threatening: The victim was treated for injuries described as not life-threatening.
• Upcoming Court Appearance: Watkins is scheduled to appear in court on Oct. 25.

The Future of Ashlyn Watkins' Career

Watkins is a rising 6-foot-3 junior, who averaged 9.2 points and 7.4 rebounds last season for the Gamecocks. The incident not only jeopardizes her career but also the integrity of the team.

Institutional Response

A women’s basketball spokeswoman confirmed that the school is aware of Watkins’ arrest and continues to gather information.