Breaking News: Dawn Staley Named College Coach of the Year, Wins Prestigious Naismith Award…see more…
Breaking News: Dawn Staley Named College Coach of the Year, Wins Prestigious Naismith Award
In an outstanding achievement for women’s college basketball, South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley has been named the 2025 College Coach of the Year, securing the coveted Naismith Coach of the Year Award. This prestigious honor, awarded by the Atlanta Tipoff Club, recognizes the nation’s top college basketball coach and cements Staley’s reputation as one of the sport’s most influential and successful leaders.
Staley, who has led the South Carolina Gamecocks to unparalleled success in recent years, guided her team to an impressive season that included a dominant regular-season record and a deep run in the NCAA Tournament. Her leadership has not only translated into wins but has significantly raised the profile of women’s college basketball, garnering national attention and respect for the Gamecocks’ program.
The Naismith Award is a fitting recognition for Staley, who has transformed South Carolina into a powerhouse. Under her direction, the Gamecocks have consistently been ranked among the top teams in the nation, capturing multiple SEC titles and reaching the Final Four on several occasions. This year, her team finished with a remarkable record, including victories over some of the country’s most competitive programs. The Gamecocks have become known for their tough defense, fast-paced offense, and exceptional player development—all hallmarks of Staley’s coaching philosophy.
The award also highlights Staley’s personal impact on the game. As a former player herself, Staley has always emphasized empowering her athletes to succeed both on and off the court. Her coaching style blends strategic brilliance with a deep commitment to mentorship, ensuring that her players grow as people and professionals. Staley’s leadership extends beyond basketball as she consistently advocates for the advancement of women’s sports, fighting for equal recognition, resources, and opportunities for female athletes.
Throughout the season, Staley’s Gamecocks showcased resilience, teamwork, and mental toughness—qualities that have become synonymous with her coaching. Players like Zia Cooke, Aliyah Boston, and Laeticia Amihere flourished under her guidance, with Boston receiving numerous accolades as one of the nation’s top players. Staley’s ability to get the best out of her players while maintaining a positive and inclusive team culture has been instrumental in South Carolina’s sustained success.
Staley’s victory is also a reflection of her growing influence in the broader basketball community. Known for her strong leadership, she has used her platform to push for social change and elevate the visibility of women’s basketball. Her advocacy for better resources for female athletes, including equal pay and better facilities, has made her a central figure in the conversation about gender equity in sports.
Upon receiving the Naismith Award, Staley shared an emotional message thanking her players, coaching staff, and the South Carolina community for their unwavering support. She expressed deep pride in the Gamecocks’ accomplishments but emphasized that the award was a testament to the collective effort of everyone involved in the program.
“To be recognized by my peers in such a way is truly humbling,” Staley said. “This is a reflection of the hard work and dedication of the players, the coaching staff, and the entire Gamecock family. We’ve built something special here, and I’m proud of everything we’ve accomplished together.”
Dawn Staley’s Naismith Coach of the Year Award serves as a powerful reminder of her transformative role in college basketball. As she continues to lead South Carolina, her legacy as one of the sport’s greatest coaches—and advocates for the growth of women’s sports—remains firmly in place. With Staley at the helm, the future of women’s college basketball looks brighter than ever.
