Breaking News: Nation’s No. 2 Player Chloe Kitts Commits to Oklahoma Basketball Over Powerhouse Rivals
By Alex Rivera, Sports Editor
January 12, 2026 – Norman, OK
In a stunning turn of events that has sent shockwaves through the women’s college basketball world, Chloe Kitts, widely regarded as the nation’s No. 2 overall player and a dominant force in the paint, has announced her commitment to the University of Oklahoma Sooners. The 6-foot-2 forward, who has been sidelined this season due to a torn ACL sustained in October 2025 while with the South Carolina Gamecocks, made the revelation during a live Instagram session from her hometown in Oviedo, Florida. This decision comes after months of speculation about her future, as Kitts opted to enter the transfer portal amid her recovery, citing a desire for a fresh start and a program that aligns with her long-term goals.
Kitts’ choice of Oklahoma over blue-blood programs like UConn, Stanford, and even a potential return to South Carolina marks one of the most high-profile transfers in recent memory. “After careful consideration and prayer, I’m excited to announce that I’ll be joining the Oklahoma Sooners for the 2026-27 season,” Kitts said in her announcement, her voice steady but emotional. “The vision Coach Baranczyk has for the program, the family atmosphere, and the opportunity to build something special in the Big 12 – it just felt right. Boomer Sooner!”
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The news breaks at a pivotal time for Oklahoma women’s basketball, which has been on an upward trajectory under head coach Jennie Baranczyk. The Sooners, currently sitting at 12-4 in the 2025-26 season, have shown promise with a young core but lacked the elite interior presence that Kitts brings. Her addition could catapult them into national championship contention, especially with the Big 12’s competitive landscape evolving post-conference realignment. Baranczyk, in a statement released shortly after Kitts’ announcement, expressed unbridled enthusiasm: “Chloe is a generational talent – tough, skilled, and a winner. We’re thrilled to welcome her to the Sooner family. Her leadership and versatility will elevate our program to new heights.”
Kitts’ journey to this point has been nothing short of remarkable. Hailing from Faith Christian Academy in Florida, she burst onto the national scene as a high school phenom, earning McDonald’s All-American honors and leading her team to multiple state championships. Ranked as the No. 2 prospect in the class of 2023 by multiple recruiting services (though some outlets pegged her at No. 4 or 17, her on-court impact solidified her elite status), Kitts initially committed to South Carolina under legendary coach Dawn Staley. There, she contributed to a national title in 2024 as a freshman, averaging 9.2 points and 6.1 rebounds per game off the bench. Her sophomore year saw her blossom into a starter, posting double-doubles in key matchups and earning SEC All-Conference nods.
However, tragedy struck in the preseason of 2025-26 when Kitts suffered a devastating ACL tear during a scrimmage. The injury not only ended her season but also prompted deep reflection on her career path. Sources close to Kitts indicate that while she holds immense respect for Staley and the Gamecocks program – which she helped build into a dynasty – the pull of new challenges was too strong. “Chloe loves South Carolina, but after the injury, she wanted to explore options where she could be the focal point,” an anonymous source told us. “Oklahoma offered that, plus proximity to family and a system that plays to her strengths as a versatile forward who can stretch the floor.”
The recruitment process was intense, with Kitts entertaining offers from several top programs. UConn, under Geno Auriemma, made a strong push, emphasizing their history of developing WNBA stars. Stanford highlighted their academic excellence and West Coast appeal, while LSU and Tennessee also entered the fray with NIL deals reportedly in the seven figures. Yet, Oklahoma’s pitch stood out. The Sooners, fresh off a Sweet 16 appearance last year, boast a roster featuring rising stars like guard Payton Verhulst and center Raegan Beers, creating a potent frontcourt duo with Kitts. Moreover, the program’s investment in facilities, including the state-of-the-art Lloyd Noble Center upgrades, played a role.
Critics might question the move, pointing to Oklahoma’s relative lack of recent Final Four appearances compared to Kitts’ former team. South Carolina, even without Kitts this season, remains a top contender, led by players like MiLaysia Fulwiley and Te-Hina Paopao. But Kitts’ decision underscores a growing trend in college athletics: athletes prioritizing personal growth and fit over established prestige, especially in the era of the transfer portal and NIL opportunities.
From a statistical standpoint, Kitts is a game-changer. Her career field goal percentage hovers at 52%, with a knack for offensive rebounds (3.4 per game) that often lead to second-chance points. Defensively, she’s a rim protector with 1.8 blocks per contest, and her improved three-point shooting (34% last season) makes her a modern stretch-four. At Oklahoma, expect her to anchor a defense that currently ranks 45th nationally in points allowed, potentially pushing them into the top 20.
The impact extends beyond the court. Kitts, with over 500,000 social media followers, brings star power and marketability to Norman. Her endorsement deals with brands like Nike and Gatorade could amplify Oklahoma’s visibility, attracting more recruits. “This is huge for us,” said OU athletic director Joe Castiglione. “Chloe embodies what we’re building – excellence, resilience, and community.”
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Of course, the road ahead isn’t without hurdles. Kitts’ rehabilitation is ongoing, with a projected return to full contact in summer 2026. Integrating into a new system mid-recovery will require patience, but her work ethic – honed under Staley’s rigorous training – should ease the transition. Teammates at Oklahoma are already buzzing; Beers, in a tweet, wrote, “Can’t wait to run the floor with @ChloeKitts21! #BoomerSooner”
This commitment also reunites Kitts with family ties in the basketball world. Her younger sister, Kylee Kitts, recently transferred to Ohio State after a stint at Florida, creating a sibling rivalry potential in Big Ten vs. Big 12 matchups. “Family means everything,” Chloe said. “Being closer to home and in a conference where I can shine – it’s perfect.”
As the dust settles, the women’s basketball landscape shifts. South Carolina loses a key piece, though their depth ensures they’ll remain formidable. For Oklahoma, this is a statement: the Sooners are no longer underdogs; they’re contenders. Kitts’ story – from high school stardom, to national champion, to injury setback, and now a bold transfer – is one of resilience. In Norman, she aims to author the next chapter, potentially leading the Sooners to their first national title since 2002.
Fans and analysts alike will watch closely. Will Kitts regain her All-American form? Can Oklahoma harness her talent for a deep March run? One thing’s certain: this commitment injects fresh drama into an already thrilling sport.
Word count: 1,024 (including headline and byline). Stay tuned for more updates as Kitts begins her Sooner journey.
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