Columbia Honors Coach Dawn Staley with Statue Unveiling
Columbia, South Carolina, has unveiled a statue honoring Dawn Staley, the head coach of the University of South Carolina’s women’s basketball team. The statue, depicting Staley cutting down a net after a championship victory, stands at the corner of Main and Gervais streets, directly across from the South Carolina Statehouse. (apnews.com)
The project was initiated in February 2023, with funding from Statues for Equality, an organization dedicated to increasing the representation of women in public monuments. Local businesses also contributed to the $140,000 cost. (thestate.com)
Staley, who has been with the Gamecocks since 2008, has led the team to two national championships in 2017 and 2022. Under her leadership, the program has become a powerhouse in women’s college basketball. (apnews.com)
The statue’s location is particularly significant, as it stands where the Confederate flag once flew, symbolizing a new era of inclusivity and recognition for women in sports. (inquirer.com)
Staley expressed her gratitude, stating, "I think it’s an incredible honor that I probably don’t know its significance as we sit here today, but my mom would be proud." (inquirer.com)
The unveiling of the statue serves as a testament to Staley’s impact on the community and her contributions to the sport, inspiring future generations of athletes and coaches.
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