Dawn Staley Earns Another Nod on Prestigious Naismith Coach of the Year Watch List
In a major midseason accolade, South Carolina women’s basketball head coach Dawn Staley has once again been named to the Werner Ladder Naismith Women’s College Coach of the Year Watch List, signaling national recognition of her continued excellence on the sidelines. (On3)
The announcement, made by the Atlanta Tipoff Club, places Staley among 15 elite head coaches across the country considered for the sport’s most prestigious coaching honor — an award she has historically dominated.
A Legacy of Success
Staley isn’t just another name on the list — she’s one of the most accomplished figures in women’s college basketball history. She holds the record for the most Naismith Coach of the Year awards won by any coach, male or female, having claimed the honor four times before, including three straight seasons leading into this campaign.
Under her tutelage, the Gamecocks have built one of the most consistent winning cultures in the sport. South Carolina’s program has recorded multiple long win streaks, including a 43-game overall winning streak and SEC-best streaks both at home and in conference play — achievements that helped cement Staley’s case for another Naismith nod this season.
2025-26 Season Context
This season’s Gamecocks have once again been among the nation’s elite. South Carolina sits near the top of the SEC standings, carrying an impressive overall record and maintaining its reputation as a national title contender.
Despite roster changes and the loss of key players from prior years, Staley’s coaching prowess has kept South Carolina competitive on every front. Her adaptability, player development, and strategic excellence continue to draw high praise from analysts and rival coaches alike.
More Than Just a Coach
Staley’s accomplishments go far beyond wins and losses. Off the court, she has elevated women’s basketball’s profile, consistently packing arenas and cultivating one of the sport’s most passionate fan bases. She has also made significant impacts internationally, having guided U.S. teams in USA Basketball competition and earning multiple coaching honors both nationally and abroad. (University of South Carolina Athletics)
What Comes Next
Being named to the Naismith Coach of the Year Watch List doesn’t guarantee Staley will win the final award — in 2025, for example, she was a finalist but ultimately the honor went to another coach. However, her repeated inclusion on the list reaffirms her status as one of the premier coaches in college basketball.
As South Carolina continues its season with key matchups on the schedule, all eyes will be on Staley and her Gamecocks to see if they can live up to the lofty expectations that come with another Naismith nod.
