NCAA legend Dawn Staley gets the ultimate honor

You can’t talk about women’s basketball without mentioning Dawn Staley’s name multiple times. That’s why the city of Columbia in South Carolina has decided to give her some flowers.

The city announced that they will be unveiling a statue of the renowned coach on campus. She’s been there for 17 years, and she’s led them to seven Final Fours and three NCAA Championships.

Staley has also been named the Naismith Coach of the Year four times, the AP National Coach of the Year twice, and she’s also earned seven SEC Coach of the Year distinctions.

Dawn Staley will get a statue

“This tribute celebrates not only her championship legacy as a coach and player, but also her unwavering commitment to leadership, community empowerment, and uplifting future generations,” the statement read. “Dawn Staley’s influence continues to inspire both on and off the court, and this statue stands as a lasting symbol of excellence, resilience, and pride for Columbia and the entire state of South Carolina.”

Head coach Dawn Staley of the South Carolina

Needless to say, this is a much-deserved honor for one of the most accomplished athletes in U.S. sports’ history, not only as a player but also as a renowned women’s basketball coach.

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Per the announcement, there will be a statue unveiling ceremony on Wednesday, April 30, at 4:00 pm (Eastern Time) at 900 Senate St. in Columbia, and the statue will be located right next to the Pastides Alumni Center.