“That’s some old school stuff”: Dawn Staley approves LiAngelo Ball’s latest song as she grooves with South Carolina players 

South Carolina coach Dawn Staley was seen vibing to LiAngelo Ball’s latest release. In a video in an Instagram post on Tuesday, she showed her lighter side as she danced alongside her players during practice to Ball’s latest song “Tweaker.”

Ball, part of the famous Ball family, is known for his basketball prowess but has recently expanded his talents to the music industry. His latest track, “Tweaker,” released in January, has made waves not only among fans but also within the South Carolina women’s basketball program.

“That’s some old school stuff,” Staley said in the video.

The caption "WOAHHHHHHH" playfully hinted at Staley’s seal of approval, referring to her appreciation for Ball’s musical effort.

This wasn't the first time Staley has shown her fun side. Over the years, she has consistently fostered a culture of togetherness within the Gamecocks, helping her players stay connected both on and off the court.

Dawn Staley's statement concerning Tessa Johnson after career-high performance

The No. 2 South Carolina Gamecocks (14-1, 2-0 Southeastern Conference) are riding a nine-game winning streak under Dawn Staley. One player who has stood out recently is Tessa Johnson. Coming off an injury during South Carolina's victory over then-No. 9 NC State on Nov. 10, Johnson has made her mark.

Johnson put up a career-high 22 points in South Carolina’s 95-68 victory over the Mississippi State Bulldogs on Sunday. In a recent interview with Watch Fox, Staley was clear about Johnson's approach.

“Production needs more minutes, no matter who it is,” Staley said.

Staley elaborated on her statement, explaining her rationale for rewarding players based on their output and effort.

“We’re not going to change anything,” Staley said. “But certainly when Tessa’s shooting as well as she’s doing and playing, like, defending as well as she is, we’re going to find some more minutes for her because that’s what her production says.”

The mindset reflects Staley’s commitment to fostering a competitive and merit-based environment, where players’ efforts and results directly influence their playing time.

Tessa Johnson has averaged 9.8 points, 1.5 rebounds, and 1.5 assists while shooting 49.5% this season. Johnson has scored in double figures in South Carolina's last three games (14 vs. Wofford, 10 vs. Missouri, 22 vs. Mississippi State), prompting her increase in minutes from 20.2 per game in her first 10 games to 28.3 mpg in the last three games.

Following South Carolina's sole regular-season loss to UCLA on Nov 24, Johnson’s contributions, along with strong performances from her teammates, have been instrumental in the Gamecocks’ recent victories.