South Carolina Star’s Friendship Blossoms on Social Media

Teammates share heartfelt tribute ahead of final season

As **Chloe Kitts** prepares for her pivotal final season with the South Carolina Gamecocks, her bond with teammate **Tessa Johnson** is captivating fans. A recent social media post from Johnson has highlighted their close friendship, earning widespread admiration.

A Heartfelt TikTok Tribute

Johnson shared a TikTok featuring a touching message for Kitts, expressing the deep value of their connection. The video included a personal photo of the two players together, their faces close with affectionate expressions.

“You’re worth more than diamonds, more than gold,” Johnson wrote.

**Kitts** responded emotionally to the gesture, commenting, “Bouta shed a tear.” This interaction underscores the strong camaraderie within the Gamecocks squad.

Looking Ahead: A Crucial Season

Both **Kitts** and **Johnson** are entering their final year of collegiate eligibility. **Kitts**, in particular, is generating significant buzz as a projected high pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft. Last season, she averaged 10.2 points and 7.7 rebounds, while **Johnson** contributed 8.4 points per game.

The Gamecocks boast considerable talent, with **Taniya Latson**, a highly-rated transfer from Florida State, joining the team. ESPN analyst **Michael Voepel** ranked **Kitts** as the No. 10 prospect for the 2026 WNBA Draft, with **Latson** appearing at No. 4. The pair are expected to anchor the Gamecocks’ offense under coach **Dawn Staley**.

Notably, **Kitts** has witnessed firsthand the excitement of draft day, as her boyfriend, **Collin Murray-Boyles**, was selected by the Toronto Raptors earlier this year.

The dedication and chemistry displayed by players like **Kitts** and **Johnson** are crucial for success. For instance, teamwork and strong personal bonds have been linked to improved athletic performance; a study in the *Journal of Applied Sport Psychology* found that perceived team cohesion positively correlates with athlete satisfaction and performance outcomes.