In college basketball, HBCU teams are often ignored, receiving minimal opportunities to elevate their programs to the next level. Dawn Staley is trying to change that narrative with her legendary platform. Since being hired in 2008, she has built a powerhouse dynasty with the South Carolina Gamecocks. In 2012, Staley was inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame for her extensive accomplishments as a player.
Staley is persistent in her mission to increase the awareness of lesser-known women’s basketball programs. It is a rarity for national contenders to play on HBCU home courts, however, Staley understands how these games push women’s basketball forward. By scheduling games against HBCU programs, Staley helps ensure the national spotlight recognizes these teams.
For Dawn Staley, the view at the top is better with company. She is using her championship pedigree to empower the entire ecosystem of women’s basketball by intentionally directing attention to the talent embedded in HBCU programs that are commonly overlooked. Staley’s leadership and legacy extend far beyond her impressive win-loss record.
On January 18th, 2026, the Gamecocks traveled to Baltimore to face HBCU Coppin State. While Coppin State did not pull off an upset, the contest boosted their national exposure. The matchup drew in energized fans, with the arena nearly sold out at tipoff. Games like this improve HBCU visibility and encourage competitive balance across the NCAA. Iron sharpens iron, and competing against a team like South Carolina strengthens programs like Coppin State.
Dawn Staley is a true champion, advocating for an equitable and inclusive women’s basketball landscape. As the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame celebrates Black History Month, Staley is a remarkable example of Black excellence. Her legacy serves as a meaningful reminder that true trailblazers forge a path for everyone, not just for themselves.
About the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame
Founded in 1999, the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame (WBHOF), located in Knoxville, Tennessee, honors the greatest players, coaches, contributors, and officials in women’s basketball history. The WBHOF is the only facility of its kind, recognizing excellence at all levels of the sport, from high school and collegiate competition to professional and international play. The Hall is home to more than 200 inductees and works to preserve the legacy of women’s basketball through its museum, educational programming, special events, and annual induction ceremony.
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Zadie Fiveash, Communications Manager
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