The University of South Carolina has made a major statement, securing Dawn Staley’s position as the highest-paid coach in women’s college basketball. This landmark contract sets a new financial standard for the sport.
“Dawn Staley is a once-in-a-generation coach who has made a tremendous impact on the University of South Carolina,” said Athletic Director Jeremiah Donati. “She has elevated the sport of women’s basketball on the national level and here on campus, and I am excited that she will be representing our University for many years to come.”
Staley’s on-court success speaks for itself. In the 2023-24 season, she led the Gamecocks to a perfect 38-0 record and the program’s third NCAA championship. They currently boast a school-record 43-game winning streak and have made six Final Four appearances under her guidance.
The terms of the new agreement are impressive. Staley will receive a starting annual salary of $4 million, with yearly increases of $250,000, plus a $500,000 signing bonus. This surpasses the salary of Kim Mulkey at LSU, who previously held the top spot at $3.26 million annually.
A notable clause in Staley’s contract addresses her potential departure. If she leaves for another college before April 2030, she must pay a buyout equal to one year’s salary. However, a move to the professional ranks would waive this requirement.
Staley’s legacy extends beyond coaching. She was a celebrated player, earning National High School Player of the Year honors, leading Virginia to an NCAA championship game, becoming a six-time WNBA All-Star, and winning multiple Olympic gold medals with Team USA.
This historic contract ensures that a pivotal figure in women’s basketball will continue to lead South Carolina’s program for the foreseeable future.
