South Carolina women’s basketball head coach Dawn Staley has been named the 2025 Naismith Coach of the Year, solidifying her place among the sport’s elite. The prestigious honor comes with a record-breaking $2 million prize, the largest payout ever awarded to a college basketball coach for this distinction.
This marks the third time Staley has won the award, having previously claimed it in 2020 and 2022. Under her leadership, the Gamecocks have maintained their dominance in women’s college basketball, posting an undefeated regular season and entering the NCAA Tournament as the No. 1 overall seed.
“This award is a reflection of my players, my staff, and the culture we’ve built at South Carolina,” Staley said in a statement. “I’m incredibly honored, but this is about more than me—it’s about pushing the game forward and ensuring women’s basketball continues to grow.”
Staley’s impact extends beyond the court. She has been a vocal advocate for gender equity in college sports and has played a major role in elevating the profile of women’s basketball nationwide. The $2 million prize is seen as a landmark moment for the sport, signaling a shift toward greater financial recognition for top coaches in the women’s game.
South Carolina, a perennial powerhouse under Staley, is now aiming for its third national championship since 2017. With her latest accolade, she further cements her legacy as one of the greatest coaches in NCAA history.
The Gamecocks are set to begin their tournament run this week, with expectations at an all-time high following Staley’s latest honor.