Dawn Staley leaves a lasting legacy that will change the game for future generations with her historic $60 million gift to South Carolina basketball………..

Columbia, SC – May 4, 2025 — In an unprecedented move that has sent shockwaves through the world of college basketball, **Dawn Staley**, the legendary head coach of the South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball team, has announced a historic **\$60 million donation** to the university’s basketball program. This remarkable gift will forever change the landscape of women’s college basketball and solidify Staley’s legacy as one of the most influential figures in the sport’s history.

The donation, the largest in the history of South Carolina athletics, will go toward developing world-class facilities, creating more scholarships for aspiring student-athletes, and enhancing the overall basketball program at the university. Staley, who has already built South Carolina into a national powerhouse with multiple NCAA titles, is now ensuring that the program remains at the forefront of women’s college basketball for years to come.

This is not just about what we’ve built over the last decade; this is about what we can continue to build. It’s about the next generation of athletes who will come through these doors, who will wear the Gamecock jersey, and who will have access to the best resources to help them succeed both on and off the court.

Staley’s donation will fund the construction of a new, state-of-the-art women’s basketball practice facility offering players the best environment to develop their skills. Additionally, the gift will provide funding for **athletic scholarships**, ensuring that talented young women from all backgrounds will have the opportunity to attend South Carolina, regardless of their financial situation.

The \$60 million gift is more than just an investment in basketball; it is a statement about the future of women’s sports. Historically, women’s athletics have been underfunded compared to their male counterparts, but Staley’s gift challenges that status quo. Her leadership has already inspired a new era of women’s basketball, one where programs like South Carolina’s are competing on equal footing with the best in the country.

As one of the most prominent Black women in sports, Staley’s philanthropic efforts also reflect her deep commitment to social justice and creating opportunities for underrepresented groups. Her impact reaches beyond the basketball court, as she continues to advocate for gender equality and the importance of women’s sports.

In a touching moment during the announcement, former South Carolina standout and current WNBA star A’ja Wilson spoke about the importance of Staley’s leadership, both on and off the court.

Coach Staley has been the driving force behind everything we’ve accomplished,”** Wilson said. **“She gave us the tools to be champions, but more importantly, she gave us the courage to be ourselves. This gift will ensure that future generations of young women have the same opportunity to shine that we did.

Wilson’s words echoed the sentiments of countless players who have been shaped by Staley’s mentorship. The coach’s legacy is not just about championships, but about creating a culture of excellence and empowerment that will impact young women for decades to come.

This \$60 million gift is not only monumental for South Carolina but also marks a turning point for women’s sports across the nation. Staley’s action sets a new benchmark for how women’s athletic programs should be funded and supported. It’s a call to action for other leaders in college athletics to prioritize women’s sports, ensuring that future generations of athletes can thrive without limits.

With this historic donation, Dawn Staley proves that her influence extends far beyond the basketball court. She has changed the game — and now, her legacy is secured for generations to come.