• Dawn Staley inks a $25 million contract extension.
• The deal secures her position through the 2029-30 season.
• Staley is recognized for elevating women's basketball at South Carolina.
• The contract includes a $4 million annual salary and escalators.
• She has led the Gamecocks to three national championships and numerous accolades.

Dawn Staley, head coach of the University of South Carolina's women's basketball team, has officially signed a historic contract extension valued at approximately ($25 million), making her the highest-paid coach in women's college basketball history. This announcement, made on Friday, ensures her position with the Gamecocks through the 2029-30 season. Under the terms of the contract, Staley will earn an annual salary of $4 million, with a $250,000 escalator each year, in addition to a signing bonus of $500,000 (AP News).

Staley's impact on women's basketball is profound, having propelled the Gamecocks to success since her appointment in 2008, including clinching three national championships in 2017, 2022, and 2024, and reaching the Final Four six times in the past nine seasons (CBS News). “I’m proud to represent the University of South Carolina and of its investment in women’s basketball,” Staley remarked, emphasizing that the achievements on the court reflect a collaborative effort among the team, the university, and the community (Reuters).

The significance of Staley's contract is further underscored by the praise from Athletic Director Jeremiah Donati, who called her a “once-in-a-generation coach” whose efforts have transformed the sport both at the university and nationally (The Guardian). This season, the Gamecocks are currently ranked No. 2, riding a winning streak and boasting a 17-1 record.

Alumni and former players, like Aliyah Boston, expressed pride in Staley's achievements, stating, “I think about what coach Staley has done for women’s basketball and how much she just advocates for us” (The Guardian). Additionally, the program has experienced record attendance, selling out season tickets for the first time, showcasing the growing support for women’s basketball.

As Staley continues to inspire future generations of athletes, the investment from the university marks a significant recognition of the value and potential in women's sports.

For more detailed coverage of Staley's contract extension, visit CBS News.