A Queen Immortalized: Dawn Staley Statue Unveiling in Columbia, SC, Features Powerful Tribute from A’ja Wilson
Columbia, South Carolina, erupted in celebration on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, as the city unveiled a powerful and long-awaited tribute to a true icon: University of South Carolina women’s basketball coach, Dawn Staley. The 14-foot bronze statue, depicting Staley in a moment of triumph with a cut-down net draped over her shoulder, now stands proudly near the university’s alumni center, a testament to her transformative impact on the sport and the community.
While the unveiling ceremony was filled with heartfelt speeches and joyous cheers from fans, former players, and city officials, a particularly moving moment came through a powerful video tribute sent by none other than A’ja Wilson, the reigning three-time WNBA MVP and a legendary alumna of Staley’s program. Unable to attend the ceremony in person due to training camp with the Las Vegas Aces, Wilson’s words resonated deeply, underscoring the profound influence Staley has had on her life and career.
Wilson’s tribute went beyond mere congratulation. She spoke eloquently about Staley’s unwavering belief in her, even during challenging times. She recalled moments of doubt and adversity, and how Staley’s guidance, tough love, and unwavering support propelled her to achieve greatness both on and off the court. Wilson emphasized that Staley’s impact extended far beyond basketball, shaping her into the woman she is today.
“Coach Staley,” Wilson said in the video, her voice filled with emotion, “this statue isn’t just about championships and wins, although you’ve given us plenty of those. It’s about the lives you’ve touched, the barriers you’ve broken, and the inspiration you’ve given to countless young women, including myself. You saw potential in me that I didn’t always see in myself, and you pushed me to be better every single day. For that, I am eternally grateful.”
Wilson also touched upon Staley’s commitment to the Columbia community and her role as a beacon of hope and empowerment, particularly for young Black women. She highlighted Staley’s dedication to building a program rooted in equity and access, fostering not just exceptional athletes but also strong, confident individuals.
Staley, visibly moved by Wilson’s heartfelt message, spoke with humility and grace during the ceremony. She admitted that having a statue was never a personal goal, and initially, she wanted Wilson’s statue, unveiled in 2021, to be the sole representation of their program’s success in bronze. However, she came to understand the importance of her own statue as a symbol of possibility for future generations.
“I agreed to the statue not for me,” Staley stated, “but for the girl who will walk by one day and wonder who I was. Maybe she’ll look me up. She’ll see that I did some things in basketball, of course, but I hope she sees much more. I hope she sees resilience, determination, and the importance of lifting others as you climb.”
The statue’s depiction of Staley holding a cut-down net is a nod to her iconic tradition after championship victories, a visual representation of her winning legacy. Its placement near the Pastides Alumni Center symbolizes her deep connection to the university and the city.
Columbia Mayor Daniel Rickenmann declared May as “Coach Dawn Staley Month,” further emphasizing her profound impact on the city. He noted that the statue represents not just athletic achievement but also Staley’s unwavering commitment to community empowerment and uplifting future generations.
The unveiling of Dawn Staley’s statue is a significant moment, not only for the University of South Carolina and the city of Columbia but also for the broader landscape of women’s sports. It serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of leadership, mentorship, and the enduring legacy of a true champion. And the heartfelt tribute from A’ja Wilson only amplified the significance of this momentous occasion, showcasing the deep and lasting impact of Dawn Staley’s extraordinary career.
