Dawn Staley, the formidable head coach of the South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball team, has been honored with the 2025 Werner Ladder Naismith Women’s College Coach of the Year award. This accolade marks her unprecedented fifth recognition, solidifying her legacy as one of the most influential figures in collegiate basketball.
Staley’s journey with the Gamecocks began in 2008, when she took over a struggling program and transformed it into a powerhouse. Under her leadership, South Carolina has secured multiple SEC regular-season and tournament titles, and has made consistent appearances in the NCAA Final Four. The 2024-2025 season was particularly remarkable, with the team achieving a 23-3 record, including an impressive nine victories against ranked opponents. Their defensive prowess and depth have been key factors in their success, with the Gamecocks ranking among the nation’s best in several statistical categories.
Beyond her on-court achievements, Staley has been a trailblazer off the court. In January 2025, she signed a historic $25 million contract extension, making her the highest-paid coach in women’s college basketball. This commitment ensures that she will continue to lead the Gamecocks through the 2029-2030 season.
Additionally, Staley announced the upcoming release of her inspirational book, “Uncommon Favor: Basketball, North Philly, My Mother, and the Life Lessons I Learned from All Three,” set to be published in May 2025. The memoir will chronicle her journey from the projects of North Philadelphia to her illustrious career as a player and coach.
Staley’s influence extends beyond the collegiate arena. Her tenure as head coach of the USA women’s national basketball team led to a gold medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, further showcasing her ability to inspire and lead at the highest levels of the sport. Her dedication to excellence, both on and off the court, continues to inspire future generations of athletes and coaches alike
