Dawn Staley, head coach of the South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball team, wrapped up yet another remarkable season by guiding her squad all the way to the national championship game. In classic Staley fashion, her leadership propelled South Carolina through a highly competitive postseason run, defeating several powerhouse programs along the way.
Although the journey ended with a tough loss to the UConn Huskies in the title matchup, Staley continues to be a central figure in the basketball world—not just for her coaching achievements, but also for the way she uplifts rising stars in the sport.
Enter Mase Collins — A Future Star from Staley’s Backyard
Following the season, Staley took a moment to recognize one of the most exciting young prospects in basketball: Mase Collins. A native of Columbia, South Carolina, the underclassman phenom has officially been named to the USA Basketball U16 national team—a significant milestone for any aspiring athlete.
The USA Junior National Team shared the announcement on social media, posting:
“From Columbia, South Carolina… No. 7 @mase_collins14.”
Staley, clearly thrilled to see a hometown talent reaching national heights, responded with a glowing endorsement:
“We see you Mase!!! Let’s get it!!! Red, white and blue looks great on you!!”
Collins Drawing National Attention
According to Slam High School, Mase Collins is considered a five-star talent, turning heads with his performance at the youth level. He competed for the U15 team in the EYBL circuit—a program officially backed by NBA star Chris Paul, which showcases some of the best up-and-coming players in the country.
Although Collins is still a few years away from graduation—part of the Class of 2028—he has already drawn the eyes of scouts and analysts across the nation. He has not yet appeared in the official rankings from 247Sports, Rivals, or ESPN, but that’s largely due to his age and early stage in the recruiting process.
Still, with elite pedigree, a five-star reputation, and the backing of legends like Dawn Staley, it’s only a matter of time before Mase Collins becomes a household name.
