Dawn Staley Statue Unveiling in Columbia, SC: A’ja Wilson Sends Powerful Tribute
On May 1, 2025, Columbia, South Carolina, witnessed a momentous occasion that transcended sports—a tribute to legacy, leadership, and the enduring power of mentorship. The unveiling of a statue honoring Coach Dawn Staley, the architect of South Carolina’s women’s basketball dynasty, was a testament to her transformative impact on the program, the university, and the broader community. Standing beside the statue was A’ja Wilson, the first player to receive such an honor, whose journey from a local standout to a global icon epitomizes the profound influence of Staley’s guidance.
The idea of commemorating Coach Staley’s contributions began to take shape in February 2023, when the city of Columbia and the organization Statues for Equality announced plans to erect a statue in her honor. This initiative aimed to recognize the achievements of women in sports and public life, a category historically underrepresented in public monuments. The statue was to be installed across from the South Carolina Statehouse, symbolizing Staley’s significant role in shaping the state’s athletic and cultural landscape.
The project garnered support from various quarters, including private donations and public funds. Notably, the statue’s design was entrusted to renowned sculptors Gillie and Marc Schattner, based in Sydney and London. Their work is celebrated for capturing the essence of dynamic movement and emotion, qualities that resonate with Staley’s coaching philosophy.
Dawn Staley’s tenure as head coach of the South Carolina Gamecocks has been marked by unparalleled success. Under her leadership, the team has clinched two NCAA national championships and consistently ranked among the nation’s elite programs. Staley’s influence extends beyond the court; she has been a vocal advocate for gender equity in sports and has mentored numerous athletes who have gone on to achieve greatness.
The statue, unveiled on May 1, 2025, captures Staley in a dynamic pose, symbolizing her relentless drive and commitment to excellence. The ceremony was attended by former players, current team members, university officials, and fans, all gathered to honor a coach who has redefined the possibilities for women in collegiate athletics.
A’ja Wilson’s connection to Coach Staley is deeply personal and profoundly impactful. As a high school standout from Hopkins, South Carolina, Wilson’s decision to play for the Gamecocks was influenced by Staley’s vision and mentorship. Under Staley’s guidance, Wilson blossomed into one of the most dominant forces in women’s college basketball, leading the Gamecocks to the 2017 NCAA National Championship and earning multiple accolades, including the 2018 National Player of the Year.
Wilson’s achievements at South Carolina laid the foundation for a successful professional career with the Las Vegas Aces, where she has secured multiple WNBA titles and MVP honors. Her journey reflects the transformative power of mentorship and the lasting bonds forged through shared purpose and dedication.
The unveiling ceremony was a poignant occasion, marked by speeches, reflections, and expressions of gratitude. Coach Staley, visibly moved, acknowledged the significance of the moment, emphasizing the importance of representation and the breaking of barriers for women in sports. She expressed her desire for Wilson to be the sole figure honored with a statue, highlighting her belief in Wilson’s exceptional contributions to the program.
Wilson, in her remarks, paid tribute to her coach, family, and the community that supported her journey. She spoke of the challenges faced by her grandmother, Hattie Rakes, who, as a child, could not walk on the University of South Carolina campus due to segregation. Wilson’s emotional recounting underscored the profound significance of the statue, not just as a personal honor but as a symbol of progress and inclusion.
The installation of the statue is a significant milestone in the broader movement toward equitable representation in public monuments. According to art professor Sierra Rooney, only 6% of statues in the United States depict women, and an even smaller percentage represent Black women. The decision to honor Coach Staley with a statue in Columbia, alongside figures like Heisman Trophy winner George Rogers, challenges these disparities and sets a precedent for future recognition of women’s contributions to society.
The statue stands as a beacon for aspiring athletes, especially young Black girls, offering them a tangible representation of what is possible through hard work, passion, and dedication. It serves as a reminder that greatness is not confined by gender or race but is achievable through perseverance and vision.
The unveiling of Coach Dawn Staley’s statue in Columbia is more than a celebration of athletic achievement; it is a testament to the enduring impact of mentorship, the importance of representation, and the power of community. A’ja Wilson’s tribute encapsulates the essence of their shared journey—a journey defined by challenges overcome, barriers broken, and a legacy that will inspire generations to come. As the statue stands proudly in Columbia, it symbolizes not just the past but the limitless possibilities of the future for women in sports and beyond.
