Dawn Staley is excellence in women's basketball.
Not only is Staley the only person to win both Naismith College Athlete of the Year and Naismith Coach of the Year, but she is the only person to win Olympic gold as both an athlete and head coach. Staley is also the first Black coach in Division I college basketball to complete an undefeated season and the first Black coach to win three national championships. Staley has succeeded in every avenue basketball has to offer. And in her own words, it's because she truly has "uncommon favor."
After losing all five starters, this season began with some questioning how South Carolina would fare. Would they need a rebuilding year? Would they need to reassess their expectations with new talent? These questions were pushed aside as win after win, South Carolina inched closer to an undefeated season. With a record of 109-3 over the last three years, Staley has a coaching style that provides success.
Staley is known to have high expectations of her athletes, demanding they athletes perform academically as well as on the court. Staley wants athletes who respect their parents and understand what it means to be disciplined. Throughout this tournament, we've seen Aliyah Boston, 2023 WNBA Rookie of the Year and 2022 Naismith College Player of the Year, at Staley's side. And today, it was Boston who physically held up her former coach as she cried tears of joy following the NCAA championship win. Boston's presence proves just how much Staley prepares her athletes for excellence on and off the court. And for girls from underserved communities, seeing Staley and Boston win at such high levels, it's more than inspiring—it proves that with great work ethic, and dedicated effort, so much is possible.
At 318 Foundation, we believe that great coaches can have a lifelong impact on a developing girl. Sports can teach a shy girl to speak. Sports can teach that same girl to advocate for herself. Being a part of a team requires communication and proximity, both of which build strength, something which we at 318 Foundation believe is more than a physical trait.
An empowered voice is a powerful thing.
318 SPORTS is dedicated to empowering exceptionally talented athletes who may lack exposure or the necessary support to unlock their full potential. Our mission is to create transformative elite training experiences that not only enhance their athletic abilities but also focus on personal growth and empowerment.
We aim to cultivate voices, nurture a sense of identity, foster success and innovation, and provide access to life-enriching opportunities while building valuable networks within the sports community. By combining these elements, our program offers a comprehensive experience that goes beyond athletics. We provide athletes with the tools they need to succeed, make a positive impact, and navigate the challenges of both their sports and future endeavors, helping them maximize their potential.
Taking inspiration from coaches like Dawn Staley, we aim to help guide the next generation. Remember, a disciplined person can do anything. Join us in the journey towards excellence with 318 SPORTS.
Subscribe to our newsletter today and follow as we highlight other notable examples of excellent leadership and mentorship in collegiate sports throughout March Madness: https://www.318foundation.org/
To donate please visit: https://www.318foundation.org/donate
