Congratulations: Gamecocks Coach Dawn Staley Named 2025 Naismith Coach of the Year Award Winner & $2 million…
_BREAKING NEWS_
Dawn Staley Makes History as 2025 Naismith Coach of the Year Award Winner
University of South Carolina women’s basketball head coach Dawn Staley has been named the 2025 Naismith Coach of the Year Award winner, as announced by the Atlanta Tipoff Club. This prestigious honor is awarded annually to the top college basketball coach in the nation.
Staley, a three-time Olympic gold medalist and six-time WNBA All-Star, has led the Gamecocks to unprecedented success during her tenure. Under her guidance, South Carolina has become a perennial powerhouse in women’s college basketball, winning two NCAA championships (2017, 2022) and four SEC tournament titles.
“I’m humbled and grateful to receive the Naismith Coach of the Year Award,” Staley said. “This recognition is not just a testament to my own efforts, but also to the hard work, dedication, and commitment of our entire program, including our players, coaches, and support staff.”
As part of the award, Staley will receive a $2 million prize, which she has announced will be donated to the University of South Carolina’s women’s basketball program and the Dawn Staley Foundation, a non-profit organization that supports youth development and education initiatives.
“Dawn Staley is an exceptional coach, leader, and role model,” said Eric Oberman, Executive Director of the Atlanta Tipoff Club. “Her commitment to excellence, her passion for the game, and her dedication to her players and community make her an ideal recipient of the Naismith Coach of the Year Award.”
Staley’s achievement is a historic milestone, as she becomes the first African American coach to receive the Naismith Coach of the Year Award. Her legacy extends far beyond her on-court accomplishments, as she continues to inspire and empower young women and girls through her coaching, mentoring, and community outreach efforts.
The Naismith Coach of the Year Award is presented annually to the top college basketball coach in the nation, as voted on by the Atlanta Tipoff Club’s Board of Selectors. The award is named in honor of Dr. James Naismith, the inventor of basketball.
_Dawn Staley’s Coaching Accolades:_
– 2x NCAA Champion (2017, 2022)
– 4x SEC Tournament Champion
– 6x WNBA All-Star
– 3x Olympic Gold Medalist
_Congratulations to Coach Dawn Staley on this well-deserved recognition!_
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