Dawn Staley becomes highest-paid US women’s basketball coach in historic contract extension

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) -Dawn Staley has made history once again but this time, it’s not on the court.

Staley officially became the country’s highest-paid women’s basketball coach after the University of South Carolina’s (USC) Board of Trustees approved her contract extension that will go until the 2029-30 season.

According to a press release from USC, Staley will earn an annual salary of $4 million, including a $500,000 g bonus and an annual $250,000 escalator, giving the contract a total value of approximately $25.25 million.

“Dawn Staley is a once-in-a-generation coach who has made a tremendous impact on the University of South Carolina,” said Athletics 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 began her journey at USC in 2008 and has led the Gamecocks into an unprecedented territory on a national scale. South Carolina is now tied for third in the NCAA for overall national titles with three only behind UConn and Tennessee.

South Carolina is one of two programs to have multiple 40-game win streaks. They have also been to six of the last nine NCAA Final Fours, including appearances in the last four trips.

“I’m proud to represent the University of South Carolina and of its investment in women’s basketball,” Staley said. “What we’ve been able to accomplish on the court is a testament to what can happen when you bring together the right people from a team perspective but also have the right commitment from the University, the Athletics Department and the community to providing that team with everything it needs to be successful. I appreciate every person who has been part of our journey – player, staff member, University President and leadership, Board of Trustee member, athletics director, athletics department employee and fan. I look forward to continuing to be an example of how an investment in women’s basketball is one that will pay off for everyone.”

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