Columbia, SC – Dawn Staley, the renowned head coach of the University of South Carolina’s women’s basketball team, has once again etched her name in the annals of sports history. Known for her groundbreaking achievements and leadership, Staley has transformed the Gamecocks into a powerhouse, celebrating an extraordinary 38-0 season in 2024 that culminated in their third national championship—a feat accomplished entirely during her tenure.
Staley first captured national attention in 2021 when she became the highest-paid Black coach in NCAA women’s basketball. Since then, her impact on the program has only grown, guiding the team to six NCAA Final Four appearances and securing the university’s first national title in 2017.
In a recent announcement, the University of South Carolina revealed that Staley has been awarded a new contract worth nearly $25.25 million, making her the highest-paid coach in women’s college basketball. The new deal includes a $4 million annual salary, a $500,000 signing bonus, and an annual $250,000 escalator. Athletics Director Jeremiah Donati lauded Staley as “a once-in-a-generation coach” who has elevated women’s basketball both nationally and on campus.
“I’m proud to represent the University of South Carolina and its investment in women’s basketball,” Staley stated. “What we’ve been able to accomplish on the court is a testament to what can happen when you bring together the right people and have the right commitment from the University, the Athletics Department, and the community.”
Staley also expressed her gratitude to everyone involved in the program’s success, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and investment in women’s sports. Her commitment extends beyond the collegiate level; she is also an investor in Unrivalled, a professional 3-on-3 women’s basketball league that features some of the highest salaries in women’s sports. Among the league’s players is Aliyah Boston, a former Gamecock star now thriving in the WNBA.
Boston praised Staley’s multifaceted role, stating, “For her to be an investor shows how much she truly wants to continue to invest in women’s sports because she sees the talent.”
As Dawn Staley continues to break barriers and achieve remarkable milestones, her legacy as a transformative figure in women’s basketball is solidified, inspiring future generations of athletes and coaches alike.
