A’ja Wilson Jokes That Dawn Staley Has “Gone Soft” — And Blames TikTok for It
South Carolina legend A’ja Wilson had fans cracking up this week after teasing her former coach, Dawn Staley, about how much she has “softened” over the years. In a light-hearted moment shared via @nglwithkylie and amplified by @staley05 and breezyhall_/tt, Wilson couldn’t resist poking fun at Staley’s evolution — especially her newfound social-media habits.
During the conversation, A’ja jokingly called out Staley’s shift from her famously tough, no-nonsense coaching style to someone who is suddenly embracing fun, trends and… TikTok videos.
“She’s gotten soft… These kids got you doing TikTok!” A’ja laughed, shaking her head in disbelief.
The playful jab sent the internet into a frenzy, with fans enjoying the rare moment of reverse-roles — the star player teasing her Hall of Fame coach.
From Hard-Edged Competitor to TikTok Star?
Dawn Staley has never been shy about embracing her players, connecting with younger generations, or evolving with the times. But according to A’ja, the transformation has gone further than expected.
In Staley’s early years at South Carolina, she built the foundation of her powerhouse program with discipline, grit, and a relentless competitive edge. Anyone who played for her — including A’ja — remembers the intensity.
WATCH👇
But now? A’ja says things look a little different.
Her reaction — half disbelief, half amusement — perfectly captured how far Staley has come since the days when social media wasn’t part of coaching life.
Why Fans Are Loving This Moment
The viral clip resonated with fans for a few reasons:
- It showcases Staley’s adaptability as a coach who isn’t afraid to meet her players where they are.
- It highlights the genuine bond between A’ja and her former coach — a relationship built on trust, humor and mutual respect.
- It shows the human side of Staley, who is more than just a championship-winning coach.
Many fans commented online that Staley appearing in TikTok videos with her players is precisely why recruits love her and why her program remains elite.
A’ja Wilson Still Keeping Dawn in Check
Despite the growth of Staley’s social-media presence, A’ja made sure to remind everyone that she sees everything — especially when her coach starts dancing on apps she once claimed she’d never join.
And in perfect Dawn Staley fashion, she hasn’t denied any of it.
If anything, she seems to enjoy the playful accusation.
A Moment That Captures the Culture
The exchange is a perfect snapshot of what makes South Carolina women’s basketball one of the most admired programs in the country:
- Toughness
- Personality
- Connection
- And the ability to laugh together
Whether Staley has truly “gone soft” is up for debate — but one thing is clear: the Gamecocks’ culture is stronger than ever, and that bond continues across generations.
And yes, TikTok may have just claimed another victim.
