South Carolina’s Kaydra Duckett to transfer

Kaydra Duckett’s break from the South Carolina basketball team is now permanent.

The sophomore from Columbia and Dreher High announced Wednesday that she will transfer for her final two years of eligibility. Absent from the Gamecocks’ roster since Jan. 10 to concentrate on academics, Duckett played in 28 games over two years.

“I have decided to not continue playing with the University of South Carolina Gamecocks and will continue my basketball career at another institution,” Duckett posted to social media. “Truly no one will ever compare to what #GamecockNation has done for me but I want to thank each and every person who has helped me a warm and genuine thank you for all your efforts in making this one of the best experiences yet!”

Duckett did not immediately return a message seeking comment.

The No. 32 overall prospect in the country out of Dreher, Duckett struggled for playing time during her career. She admitted that she didn’t take her offseason strength and conditioning requirements seriously before her freshman year and she averaged 2.6 minutes in 20 games, although she did play in two NCAA tournament games.

Duckett played 55 minutes over eight games this season, averaging 1.1 points and 1.0 rebounds. She had a career-high 15 minutes against Winthrop. Her final game was on Jan. 3 against Arkansas.

“It was solely her call,” coach Dawn Staley said after Duckett’s original announcement. “We’re just going to take it this semester. We’ll let her enjoy being a regular student and work on her academics, and then we’ll talk after that.”

Duckett’s departure opens another scholarship for 2016-17. The Gamecocks have four vacant scholarships after losing five seniors, Duckett and freshman guard Shay Colley, who transferred to Pitt a week before Duckett stepped away.

Staley has commitments from guards Araion Bradshaw and Victoria Patrick and forward Mikiah Harrigan.

This story was originally published March 30, 2016 at 2:49 PM.