South Carolina’s women’s basketball powerhouse secured its future Friday. Head coach Dawn Staley signed a groundbreaking contract extension through the 2029-30 season.
Historic Contract Makes Staley Highest-Paid Women’s Basketball Coach
The University of South Carolina Board of Trustees approved a landmark deal worth $25.25 million. Staley’s new contract includes a $4 million annual base salary and a $500,000 signing bonus.
The agreement features an annual $250,000 escalator, setting a new benchmark for women’s basketball coaching salaries. This deal surpasses both LSU’s Kim Mulkey ($3.2 million) and UConn’s Geno Auriemma ($3.1 million).
Staley’s Championship Legacy at South Carolina
Since taking the helm in 2008, Staley has transformed South Carolina into a basketball dynasty. Her leadership brought the program its first conference title in 2014.
The Gamecocks claimed national championships in 2017 and 2022 under her guidance. Moreover, the team achieved perfection in 2024 with a historic 38-0 season.
Investment Reflects Program’s Growing Success
“I’m proud to represent the University of South Carolina and of its investment in women’s basketball,” Staley expressed. Her statement acknowledged the university’s commitment to excellence.
The contract demonstrates South Carolina’s dedication to maintaining its position atop women’s college basketball. This investment ensures stability for a program that has become the sport’s gold standard.
Building on Perfect Season Success
The timing of this extension follows South Carolina’s extraordinary undefeated 2024 campaign. Their perfect season made them the tenth team in women’s basketball history to achieve this feat.
This new contract positions South Carolina to continue its dominance in women’s college basketball. Staley’s leadership remains crucial to the program’s future success.
