By michael vivar
"Once in a generation…" That’s not a description attributed to many people. It’s how University of South Carolina athletics director, Jeremiah Donati, describes Dawn Staley.
Staley’s leadership as a basketball coach has propelled the school’s team to remarkable success, including appearances in six NCAA Final Four tournaments.
Nearly a decade of coaching the Gamecocks brought a milestone of their first national title in 2017.
Another historic breakthrough came just last year when Staley guided her indomitable team to an undefeated 38-0 season.
Staley's basketball record long predates her coaching career. She was part of the US Olympic team that won gold in 1996, 2000 and 2004.
She concurrently spent a six-year career in the WNBA playing for the Charlotte Sting and the Houston Comets. Fans voted her a top 15 player in 2011.
Staley parlayed her on-court success and invested in Unrivaled, a 3-on-3 women's basketball league. It boasts the highest salaries in women's sports.
She's made history yet again. On Jan. 17, 2025, it was announced that Dawn Staley would be the highest-paid coach in women's college ball.
Staley will now receive a $4 million annual salary, which includes a $500,000 signing bonus and an annual $250,000 escalator. The deal totals to nearly $25.25 million.
"I look forward to continuing to be an example of how an investment in women's basketball is one that will pay off for everyone." - Dawn Staley