South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley has already secured her place in college basketball history with three national championships, three Olympic gold medals, and five Coach of the Year honors. But that has never stopped her from showing up for her community.
She did it again recently, hosting a free back-to-school bash for local kids, handing out supplies, sharing moments, and even breaking out a few dance moves with them.
Dawn Staley Dances and Connects With Kids During Back-to-School Bash
With the first day of school around the corner, Staley is doing her part to help local kids head back in style.
Teaming up with Richland School District One and Absolute Total Care, Staley hosted a back-to-school bash that offered free school supplies, backpacks, and brand-new shoes to families in the community. Students also had the chance to display and sell science projects at the event.
In true Staley style, the legendary head coach was also seen dancing with the students, sharing laughs, and creating a moment many of them will not forget.
“There are pockets of the community that need help,” Staley said. “We want to be present in those areas and show support where it is needed most.”
Giving away the shoes, in particular, carried personal meaning for Staley. “The shoes are a big thing for me,” she said. “When I was a kid, I didn’t care what I looked like from my ankles up.”
For Staley, giving back never feels like a chore. This was just another example of Staley’s deep commitment to providing for the community she proudly represents. Through her Inner Sole Foundation and partnerships with local organizations, this back-to-school bash may be just the first of many.
Dawn Staley and South Carolina Reload After Championship Loss
After falling just short in last season’s NCAA championship game against UConn, Staley and the South Carolina Gamecocks have had a busy offseason, making key roster changes ahead of the 2025–26 campaign.
Leading the additions is Ta’Niya Latson, the NCAA’s top scorer last season at Florida State. She is expected to boost the Gamecocks’ offense and is already developing chemistry with returning point guard Raven Johnson.
In the paint, 6-foot-5 Mississippi State transfer Madina Okot brings size and production after averaging 11.3 points, 9.6 rebounds, 1.4 steals, and 1.1 blocks last season. Staley also added two five-star recruits to the mix. Ayla McDowell, a talented wing from Cypress Springs High School in Texas, and Agot Makeer, a versatile forward out of Montverde Academy in Florida, are expected to contribute early for the Gamecocks.
Champions work here pic.twitter.com/68RsMnE3Xk
— South Carolina Women’s Basketball (@GamecockWBB) July 28, 2025
South Carolina did see some key departures, including MiLaysia Fulwiley, who transferred to LSU after playing two impactful seasons in Columbia. Forward Sakima Walker also left the program, transferring to a school in the ACC.
Keep Reading: Dawn Staley Reveals Lofty Expectations for Gamecocks That Have Fans Planning Months in Advance
Junior forward Ashlyn Watkins announced she will sit out the 2025–26 season to focus on personal growth. She suffered a knee injury in January that ended her junior campaign, and she has continued to deal with off-court challenges. She plans to return for the 2026–27 season.
With a retooled roster, Staley and her staff appear focused on building another championship-caliber roster.
