Columbia, SC –** In a momentous ceremony that resonated throughout the collegiate basketball world, the University of South Carolina unveiled a towering statue honoring Dawn Staley, solidifying her place as a national icon and an indispensable figure in women’s collegiate athletics… See below

**Columbia, SC — A Monument to Legacy and Progress**

 

In a historic moment that transcends sports, the University of South Carolina and the city of Columbia unveiled a towering statue honoring Coach Dawn Staley, solidifying her legacy as a transformative figure in women’s collegiate athletics. The statue stands proudly across from the South Carolina Statehouse, a location once home to the Confederate flag, symbolizing a significant shift toward inclusivity and representation in the state. ([Dawn Staley on significance of statue in Columbia where Confederate flag once stood: ‘Bigger than basketball’ – South Carolina State Constables’ Association](https://scconstables.org/2024/02/18/dawn-staley-on-significance-of-statue-in-columbia-where-confederate-flag-once-stood-bigger-than-basketball/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))

 

**A Symbol of Excellence and Empowerment**

 

The 11-foot, 1,000-pound bronze statue depicts Coach Staley triumphantly cutting down the net after a national championship victory, capturing a moment that epitomizes her leadership and the success she has brought to the Gamecocks. Since taking the helm in 2008, Staley has led the team to three NCAA national championships, including an undefeated season in 2024, and has become the program’s all-time winningest coach. ([Why Dawn Staley’s statue in South Carolina is ‘bigger than basketball’](https://www.inquirer.com/college-sports/dawn-staley-statue-south-carolina-gamecocks-womens-basketball-20240219.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com))

 

**Community and Cultural Impact**

 

The statue project was a collaborative effort between the city of Columbia, Statues for Equality, and local businesses, with no taxpayer dollars used. Statues for Equality, an organization dedicated to increasing the representation of women and people of color in public monuments, provided a significant portion of the funding. Coach Staley expressed deep gratitude for the honor, reflecting on her humble beginnings and the significance of the statue for future generations. ([Dawn Staley to get statue of her in downtown Columbia | wltx.com](https://www.wltx.com/article/sports/dawn-staley-statue-columbia-sc/101-f2a20b13-4b9b-4504-abfe-d582f61f3f89?utm_source=chatgpt.com), [An update on South Carolina WBB coach Dawn Staley’s statue | The State](https://www.thestate.com/sports/college/university-of-south-carolina/usc-womens-basketball/article285659052.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com), [Gamecocks’ Dawn Staley getting a statue in downtown Columbia | Columbia News | postandcourier.com](https://www.postandcourier.com/columbia/news/gamecocks-dawn-staley-getting-a-statue-in-downtown-columbia/article_8c877db4-a809-11ed-bb20-23bf51b90912.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com))

 

**A Lasting Legacy**

 

The unveiling of Coach Staley’s statue marks a pivotal moment in South Carolina’s history, celebrating not only athletic achievement but also progress toward equality and representation. As visitors and residents alike gaze upon the statue, they are reminded of the power of sport to inspire change and the enduring impact of leaders who champion justice and opportunity for all.

 

This monument stands as a testament to Coach Staley’s indelible mark on the University of South Carolina, the city of Columbia, and the broader landscape of women’s sports.