When two of college sports’ most respected leaders connect over a book about leadership, you know something special is happening.
South Carolina women’s basketball coach Dawn Staley and SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey turned a simple social media exchange into a masterclass on mutual respect this week, sparked by Staley’s new book, Uncommon Favor.
What Made SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey’s Book Endorsement So Meaningful for Dawn Staley?
Dawn Staley, a Hall of Fame player and legendary coach, has led South Carolina to national dominance in women’s basketball. With NCAA championships in 2017, 2022, and 2024, plus three Olympic gold medals as a player, she represents excellence on and off the court.
Her coaching success includes SEC titles, Final Four runs, and a long list of elite athletes she has mentored.
Meanwhile, Greg Sankey, who has served as SEC Commissioner since 2015, has overseen massive changes in college sports. Sankey has been a steady and forward-thinking leader, from guiding the conference through media deals and playoff expansion to navigating NIL policy and bringing in Texas and Oklahoma.
Their connection grew stronger when Sankey added Staley’s book, Uncommon Favor, to his annual summer reading list. He tweeted that the book was his ninth pick of the summer, highlighting two key quotes: “Everybody has the ability to lead. You just have to want to,” and “Process is nothing without the right people.”
Summer Reading 📖 #9 is UNCOMMON FAVOR by @dawnstaley “Everybody has the ability to lead. You just have to want to.” “Process is nothing without the right people.” pic.twitter.com/eJgLEt7xUK
– Greg Sankey (@GregSankey) July 8, 2025
By choosing those specific lines, Sankey made it clear he saw real value in the leadership lessons shared in Staley’s book. His message reflected the same values he brings to his role in the SEC: intentional leadership and strong team culture.
How Did Dawn Staley Respond to the Commissioner’s Praise?
Staley didn’t take long to respond. She retweeted his post with excitement, writing, “Let’s gooooo Commish! Please do enjoy!!” Her lighthearted reply showed how much it meant to her that Sankey was connecting with her personal story.
Let’s gooooo Commish! Please do enjoy!! https://t.co/xjgxYhXv94
– dawnstaley (@dawnstaley) July 8, 2025
The exchange didn’t end there. In a follow-up tweet, Sankey thanked Staley for her honesty and insight. He mentioned that he had formed a list of questions to ask her next time they meet, especially about her Olympic journey. This moment showed how the book serves as more than just a memoir. It’s a conversation starter and a leadership guide.
Staley’s final reply sealed the respectful back-and-forth. She wrote, “Thank you Commish! Look forward to chatting with you! You’re the example of leadership!” Her message showed appreciation and returned the praise that Sankey had offered.
Thank you Commish! Look forward to chatting with you! You’re the example of leadership! https://t.co/mAyNfZ6SIE
– dawnstaley (@dawnstaley) July 8, 2025
Their exchange serves as a powerful reminder of how shared values can bring leaders together.
Uncommon Favor dives into Staley’s life growing up in North Philadelphia, her path as a Black woman in sports, and how she shifted from being a star player to a leader focused on others. The book speaks to resilience, vision, and leading with heart.
As rumors swirl about Staley potentially becoming the NBA’s first female head coach, this moment of support from Sankey adds to her growing legacy. While it remains unclear if she will step into the NBA spotlight, her leadership continues to shine far beyond the basketball court.
Through this exchange, fans witnessed more than a book review. They saw two respected figures lifting each other up, creating an example of leadership that goes beyond titles and trophies.
