*NEW ERA: DAWN STALEY STATUE UNVEILING IN COLUMBIA, SC: A’JA WILSON SENDS POWERFUL TRIBUTE*
The city of Columbia, South Carolina, has immortalized the legacy of Dawn Staley, the legendary University of South Carolina women’s basketball coach, with a stunning bronze statue. The unveiling ceremony, held on April 30, 2025, was a testament to Staley’s impact on and off the court, with A’ja Wilson, Staley’s former star player, sending a heartfelt tribute.
*A Lasting Tribute*
The 14-foot, 2,000-pound statue depicts Staley smiling on a ladder, holding a basketball net, symbolizing her playing and coaching careers. Located at the intersection of Senate Street and Lincoln Street, near the University of South Carolina Pastides Alumni Center, the statue is a lasting symbol of excellence, resilience, and pride for Columbia and the entire state of South Carolina ¹ ².
*A’ja Wilson’s Emotional Reaction*
Although Wilson couldn’t attend the ceremony in person due to WNBA training camp, she expressed her admiration for Staley on social media. “It’s amazing,” Wilson said. “I hate that I’m missing it, but obviously I know she would cuss me out if I was there, not at training camp…. It truly just speaks volumes to who she is and what she’s done for that whole city of Columbia, the state of South Carolina, women’s basketball. It’s deserving. I’m so happy that she finally gets it.” Wilson’s statue, unveiled in 2021, stands outside Colonial Life Arena, making this a poignant moment for both Staley and her former player ².
*Dawn Staley’s Legacy*
Staley’s achievements on the court are undeniable, with three national championships, seven Final Four appearances, and nine SEC Tournament titles. However, her impact extends far beyond her coaching record. Staley is a champion for equity and equality, using her platform to push for change and inspire future generations. Her statue serves as a symbol of resistance, resilience, and representation, making her one of the few Black women to be honored with a public monument in South Carolina ³.
*A Celebration of Excellence*
The statue unveiling ceremony was attended by city officials, university leaders, and community members, all celebrating Staley’s legacy. Columbia Mayor Daniel Rickenmann praised Staley’s dedication to the city and her sport, saying, “It’s a testimony to all the hard work and it elevates us as a city.” Staley’s humility and commitment to empowering others were evident in her remarks, “I agreed to the statue not for me, but for the girl who will walk by one day and wonder who I was ³.”
*Key Highlights from Dawn Staley’s Career*
– *University of Virginia*: All-American point guard (1989-1992)
– *Olympic Career*: Three-time Olympic gold medalist with Team USA (1996-2004)
– *WNBA Career*: Played for Charlotte Sting and Houston Comets (2000-2006)
– *Coaching Career*: Head coach of South Carolina women’s basketball (2008-present), leading the team to three NCAA championships
– *Hall of Fame*: Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame (2013) and the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame (2012)
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The unveiling of Dawn Staley’s statue marks a new era in Columbia, SC, celebrating the city’s rich basketball heritage and Staley’s enduring impact on the sport. As A’ja Wilson aptly put it, “I’m grateful to be standing with her.” The statue will undoubtedly inspire future generations of basketball players and fans, solidifying Staley’s legacy as one of the greatest coaches in women’s basketball history.
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