South Carolina’s Unselfish Play and Depth Define Its Quest for a 3rd NCAA Title in 4 Years

During a recent interview, Dawn Staley spoke candidly about the strong bond between her and her players, saying, “There’s something about us that they like. That is the very thing that continues to drive them while they’re with us.” Staley, who has built a remarkable 470-109 record since taking over as head coach of the South Carolina women’s basketball team in 2008, emphasized the importance of maintaining honesty and transparency with her athletes.

As is the case with any competitive environment, not all players are content when they feel their playing time is lacking. But Staley has found a way to navigate these tensions by addressing the issues head-on. “If you’re having a bad day, why did you decide to come here? It helps you get over your bad day a little bit easier, right? We’re just completely honest,” Staley explained. “If something looks, sounds, or feels off, we’re going to address it. If it looks, sounds, feels great, we’re going to promote it. I believe we know what to say to our players that will allow them to grow. Yes, they may be angry one minute, but we get down to, ‘Why? Why are you angry?’ Then we talk about that, break it down. We do it time and time again.”

One instance that tested her approach came on senior night when Bree Hall, one of her regular starters, was kept on the bench for the entire fourth quarter while five other players finished the game. “Does she feel a certain type of way? Yeah, she’s a competitor. Senior night, last regular-season game,” Staley said. “But you talk to her. You say, ‘Hey, 90% of the time you’ve been in the game. That’s been you.’ They understand when we have a unit out there that’s playing well, we’re going to continue to play them.”

Staley recognizes that clear communication is key to avoiding any lingering resentment or misunderstandings. “If I don’t say anything to Breezy, she might hold on to that for the rest of her life and remember that,” Staley noted. “When if you just address it, she can get it over with.”

This direct and open approach has helped Staley maintain a successful and cohesive team dynamic over the years.