“We have to find a cure”: 3x national champ Dawn Staley speaks up for great cause as she helps raise money for cancer patient

Dawn Staley, the legendary college basketball coach, is celebrated not only for her three NCAA championships but also for her positive influence on many lives. She is also an advocate for the battle against cancer.

At the 2024 ESPYS award on July 11, Staley will receive the Jimmy V Award for Perseverance, in recognition of her unwavering commitment to fighting cancer. The V Foundation posted a video on Twitter on Wednesday where Staley emphasized the urgent need for a cure for cancer.

"I know what Jimmy V represented. I know the strength that he utilized to his last breath and bringing awareness to cancer research. So for us, anytime that we can lend our voices to actual people, who we love that are no longer here with us to raise money. We have to find the cure."

Dawn Staley goes beyond the court. She encourages people to join the bone marrow registry, supporting patients, funding research and giving support to people going through treatment.

Her sister, Tracey Underwood, was diagnosed with leukemia in 2020. Tracey received a crucial bone marrow transplant from their brother, which saved her life.

The Jimmy V Award was named after the late American basketball player and coach Jim Valvano, who courageously battled cancer. He was diagnosed with adenocarcinoma, a type of cancer, in 1992.

A year later, in March 1993, at the ESPY Awards, Valvano announced the creation of The V Foundation, an organization aimed at finding a cancer cure. He passed away in April 1993, but his quote "Don't give up, don't ever give up" will forever be a symbol of hope for cancer patients.

Former President Barack Obama praises Dawn Staley

Former US President Barack Obama attended a reception in Las Vegas on Tuesday at USA Basketball's 50th anniversary. Obama also gave a speech on the occasion, talking about his passion for basketball.

Dawn Staley also had a brief interaction with Obama as they hugged and posed for pictures.

"I'm so proud of you," Obama told Staley.

The Gamecocks head coach posted the video on X.

"If he isn’t the coolest man on earth ….. Barack Obama thank you for your inspiration and leadership still. Now please let us borrow Michelle Obama for just 4 short years! First Gentleman is a good look for you!" Staley captioned the tweet.

Staley was the head coach of the US women's national team that won gold at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, the 2019 and 2021 FIBA AmeriCups, and the 2018 World Cup.