ESPN REPORT: South Carolina’s Dawn Staley Crowned the Greatest of All Time in Women’s College Basketball
In a groundbreaking announcement that’s ignited debate and celebration across the sports world, ESPN has officially named Dawn Staley as the Greatest of All Time (GOAT) in women’s college basketball. The South Carolina Gamecocks head coach and former University of Virginia star beat out titans of the game, including UConn’s Diana Taurasi, USC’s Cheryl Miller,and Kentucky’s Lynette Woodard,to claim the top spot in what ESPN is calling “the most definitive ranking in the history of the women’s game.”
Staley, a six-time WNBA All-Star and three-time Olympic gold medalist, has long been revered for her legacy on and off the court—but this latest honor cements her status as a once-in-a-generation figure whose impact spans decades.
A Career of Dominance
Dawn Staley’s basketball journey is one of brilliance, grit, and transformation. As a player at the University of Virginia from 1989 to 1992, she was a game-changer, leading the Cavaliers to three Final Fours and one national title game appearance. Known for her court vision, leadership, and fearless playmaking, Staley was a two-time national player of the year and a three-time Kodak All-American. She finished her college career with 2,135 points, 729 assists, and 454 steals, all while revolutionizing the point guard position for generations to follow.
But it’s her coaching career—most notably at the University of South Carolina—that pushed her over the edge in ESPN’s GOAT debate.
The South Carolina Dynasty
Since taking over the Gamecocks program in 2008, Staley has turned South Carolina into a powerhouse. Under her leadership, the Gamecocks have captured three national championships (2017, 2022, 2024), numerous SEC titles, and multiple Final Four appearances. She’s recruited and developed some of the most dominant players in recent memory, including A’ja Wilson, Aliyah Boston, and Zia Cooke.
Her coaching style—marked by toughness, discipline, and empathy—has inspired not just victories, but a cultural shift in how women’s basketball is perceived and respected.
The GOAT Debate
ESPN’s decision followed a months-long process that included input from analysts, former players, coaches, and fans. In the final round of voting, Staley edged out Diana Taurasi, the legendary UConn guard whose collegiate resume includes three national championships and a staggering 139-8 record with the Huskies. Cheryl Miller, widely considered the most dominant force of the 1980s and a trailblazer for women’s basketball at USC, came in third. Lynette Woodard, the all-time leading scorer in women’s college basketball history and the first female Harlem Globetrotter, rounded out the top four.
What set Staley apart, according to ESPN analysts, was her dual legacy: not only as one of the best players to ever step on a college court, but as one of the most successful and influential coaches in the game’s history.
“She’s changed the game—twice,” said ESPN’s Rebecca Lobo. “Once with the ball in her hands, and once with a whistle around her neck. That’s something no one else in this conversation can say.”
A Symbol of Progress
Beyond the stats and trophies, Staley has emerged as a powerful advocate for equity in sports. From her outspoken support for Black coaches to her leadership during the COVID-era controversies around NCAA women’s tournament disparities, she has been a beacon for progress and inclusion.
“Dawn’s not just a winner—she’s a leader,” said ESPN host Elle Duncan. “She’s used her platform to elevate the sport and fight for fairness. That’s part of what makes her the GOAT.”
What’s Next?
With a contract extension locking her in at South Carolina through 2031 and a recruiting pipeline full of talent, the Staley era is far from over. She continues to raise the bar for what’s possible in women’s college basketball—and with this GOAT title now officially hers, she has even more fuel for the future.
