The city of Columbia, South Carolina, unveiled a statue of Gamecocks head coach Dawn Staley during a ceremony near the Pastides Alumni Center. The new monument stands just a half-mile from the existing statue of her former star player, A’ja Wilson, symbolizing a generational legacy of excellence in women’s basketball.
Though A’ja Wilson couldn’t attend due to WNBA training camp obligations, she delivered a heartfelt message in honor of her former coach.
The Dawn Staley statue unveiling in Columbia, SC is more than just a tribute—it’s a symbol of transformation for a state and a sport. Since taking the helm of South Carolina’s program in 2008, Staley has built a powerhouse.
She was also inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2013 and the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in 2012.
This season, South Carolina reached the national championship but fell short against UConn and standout guard Paige Bueckers. Still, Staley’s impact continues to grow—on and off the court—as she becomes a cultural icon and role model.
The Dawn Staley statue unveiling in Columbia, SC cements her place in sports history and reinforces her influence on generations to come work begins june 2026.
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