On April 30, 2025, the city of Columbia unveiled a bronze statue honoring the University of South Carolina women's basketball head coach Dawn Staley. The ceremony took place downtown near the Pastides Alumni Center. The unveiling drew a crowd and was a sight to see! In attendance were new athletic director Jeremiah Donati, Steve and Jerri Spurrier, Lamont Paris and staff, and the entire Gamecocks women's basketball team.
Lamont Paris and his staff have arrived to watch the event. pic.twitter.com/izfhKeZHnA
— Famously Garnet Sports (@FamouslyGarnet) April 30, 2025
The HBC pic.twitter.com/Tdw7UJRngr
— Famously Garnet Sports (@FamouslyGarnet) April 30, 2025
We out here!! 🤩 pic.twitter.com/r3VYICeh3N
— South Carolina Women's Basketball (@GamecockWBB) April 30, 2025
AD @JDonati_SC congratulates Coach Staley on her new statue. pic.twitter.com/RvIhuBHzzR
— Famously Garnet Sports (@FamouslyGarnet) April 30, 2025
The bronze statue is a collaboration between the City of Columbia and Statues for Equality, celebrating Staley's pheomenal achievements both on and off the court. Since taking over the program in 2008, Staley has led the Gamecocks to three national titles. Even beyond her coaching success, Staley has been an example of leadership, community empowerment, and inspirations for future generations.
The moment when Dawn Staley’s new statue was unveiled. pic.twitter.com/Ajaj6Q2L1E
— Famously Garnet Sports (@FamouslyGarnet) April 30, 2025
Walk around of the statue. pic.twitter.com/2Ke9XB67sz
— Famously Garnet Sports (@FamouslyGarnet) April 30, 2025
Hang it in the Louvre ✨ pic.twitter.com/EoOcMnj8qv
— South Carolina Women's Basketball (@GamecockWBB) April 30, 2025
The statue stands as a testament to Staley's enduring impact on Gamecock Nation, young female athletes, and the state of South Carolina.
Leader.
— USC Alumni Association (@uofscalumni) April 30, 2025
Champion.
Gamecock.
Forever to thee, @dawnstaley 🤙 pic.twitter.com/XTtzb07ATo