4 best Dawn Staley moments that prove she’s the coolest head coach ever 

South Carolina Gamecocks head coach Dawn Staley is a well-loved and respected figure in sports. The three-time NCAAW championship-winning coach has always defended her student-athletes when the need arose.

But aside from her fierce personality, she has given fans some memorable moments that attest to why she is one of the coolest mentors in women's collegiate sports.

That said, let us take a look at four of her best moments in the league.

1. Dawn Staley defended Kamilla Cardoso after a problematic quip was thrown at her

When the Gamecocks and the LSU Lady Tigers engaged in a scuffle during the SEC championship game last year, a radio affiliate from the CBS Sports Minute called Cardoso a "giant Brazilian woman."

This sizeist remark stirred up a controversy on the internet, leading Staley to demand an apology from the network. She wrote:

The radio network "swiftly" apologized to Staley and Cardoso, as reported by the Gamecocks HC.

2. Staley praised Caitlin Clark after the 2024 NCAAW championship game

The Gamecocks were the most dominant team in last season's natty run as Kamilla Cardoso, Raven Johnson, and other team members were able to defeat Caitlin Clark

After the game, Staley complimented Clark's efforts and her playing style. She said:

“I want to personally thank Caitlin Clark for lifting up our sport…You are one of the GOATs of our game and we appreciate you.”

This shows the coach's commendable sportsmanship and her habit of giving credit where it's due.

3. She wanted to "fight" A'ja Wilson

Fans got to see Staley's funny and competitive side when Cardoso of the Chicago Sky and A'ja Wilson of the Las Vegas Aces played against each other on June 28. The Gamecocks HC arranged a watch party with her current and former student-athletes.

While enjoying the game, she saw that the two-time WNBA champion had blocked the 2024 NCAAW championship winner. This comically enraged Staley, who said:

"The game is on, oh Kamilla! Oh no, don't do that to Kamilla! Do not do that to Kamilla. I'm gonna fight, I'm gonna fight, I'm gonna fight."

4. Grooving with her student-athletes

Dawn Staley was seen joining in on the fun when her former and current players clapped and sang to "her song."

The 2021 NCAAW champion LeLe Grissett, MiLaysia Fulwiley, Adhel Tac, and Sania Feagin were seen chanting numbers in a rhythm. This lured Staley into their fun and said:

"They playing my song."

Moments like these highlight every bit of Staley's professionalism and gen Z ideas.