All About Dawn Staley's $25M Contract Extension

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

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Dawn Staley Contract Extension