Columbia, South Carolina, has unveiled a bronze statue honoring University of South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley.
Simultaneously, Mayor Daniel Rickenmann proclaimed May as “Coach Dawn Staley Month,” celebrating her extraordinary contributions to the sport and the community.
The statue, situated at the intersection of Senate and Lincoln Streets outside the Pastides Alumni Center, captures Staley cutting down the net after a championship victory—a symbol of her leadership and success. This location holds historical significance, as it once displayed a Confederate flag, making the statue’s presence a powerful statement on progress and representation.
Funded through a collaboration between the city and Statues for Equality, the $140,000 project aims to increase the representation of women in public monuments. The statue stands 1.5 times life-size, reflecting Staley’s larger-than-life impact on the sport and the community.
Staley’s tenure at USC since 2008 has transformed the women’s basketball program into a powerhouse, securing three national championships (2017, 2022, 2024) and achieving a perfect season in 2024. Her influence extends beyond the court, as she actively mentors young athletes and advocates for equality in sports.
The statue and the month-long celebration serve not only as recognition of Staley’s achievements but also as inspiration for future generations. As Mayor Rickenmann stated, the statue stands as a reminder that “if you believe, you can accomplish anything.”
This honor cements Dawn Staley’s legacy as a trailblazer in women’s basketball and a cherished figure in Columbia’s history.
Leave a Reply