Down Staley Statue Unveiled in Columbia, SC: A Monument to Leadership and Legacy
April 30, 2025, marked a powerful moment in sports history and community celebration as the City of Columbia, South Carolina, unveiled a towering statue of University of South Carolina women’s basketball head coach, Dawn Staley. The tribute, located at the intersection of Senate and Lincoln streets near the Pastides Alumni Center, stands not only as a symbol of athletic excellence but also as a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.
Down Staley Statue Unveiled– A Powerful Image of Triumph
The 14-foot bronze statue depicts Staley triumphantly standing on a ladder, holding a basketball net—a tribute to her NCAA championship victories. Weighing nearly 2,000 pounds, the sculpture immortalizes the determination and resilience that define her legacy.
The statue’s location was intentionally chosen to mirror the nearby statue of former Gamecocks star A’ja Wilson, which was unveiled in 2021. Together, these monuments celebrate a new era of women’s sports leadership rooted in South Carolina soil.
Down Staley Statue Unveiled–A’ja Wilson’s Emotional Tribute
A’ja Wilson, Staley’s former player and WNBA star, delivered a heartfelt tribute during the unveiling ceremony. In her speech, she reflected on how Staley not only changed her life but also shaped the trajectory of women’s basketball as a whole.
“Coach Staley showed us that greatness isn’t just about winning—it’s about lifting others as you climb,” Wilson said.
A Message to Young Girls Everywhere
Speaking to the crowd, Staley shared her hope that young girls would walk past the statue and feel empowered to dream big.
“I want them to see this and know that their potential is limitless, no matter where they come from or what they look like,” she said.
The moment was both celebratory and defiant. Staley addressed previous comments from UConn’s Geno Auriemma—who noted how rare it is for coaches to be honored with statues—by highlighting how meaningful this recognition is for women, especially Black women in sports.
More Than a Coach
Dawn Staley is far more than a winning coach. She’s an Olympic gold medalist, a Hall of Famer, and a cultural icon. Her advocacy for racial equity, gender equality, and youth mentorship has elevated her influence far beyond the basketball court.
City officials, university representatives, and members of the community came out in full force for the unveiling, recognizing the powerful impact Staley has had on the city of Columbia, the University of South Carolina, and the nation.
Lastly
The statue of Dawn Staley is more than a piece of bronze—it is a permanent tribute to a woman who redefined what leadership looks like in sports and in life. As fans, athletes, and young dreamers pass by it in the years to come, they will see more than a coach on a ladder. They will see a legacy etched in greatness.
