Dawn Staley’s Bracelet Collection Continues to Grow, With a Story Behind Every Piece

In a live update from Colonial Life Arena during the opening weekend of the NCAA Tournament, the question was raised: how many bracelets does South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley wear on her right wrist?

The answers from her players were all over the place. Te-Hina Paopao guessed “10 to 12.” MiLaysia Fulwiley thought “six or seven.” Bree Hall went with “thirty-six,” and Sakima Walker estimated “like 15.” Even Maryam Dauda chimed in with “fifteen.”

The actual answer? Staley raised her arm to reveal a rainbow of bracelets covering her entire wrist and revealed, “I think I’m up to 28.” Though her players were way off (save for Hall), the fact that it didn’t look like 28 was no surprise. After all, the number seems far too large for even the most avid jewelry lover.

However, it’s not about the fashion; it’s about the significance. Staley explained that each of the bracelets was gifted to her, and many are from children, some dealing with medical conditions. “They give me perspective,” she said. “Not everyone has it so good.”

There’s a deeper meaning behind each bracelet. Staley proudly wears them because they were given to her with love—whether from a child who made a bracelet in her honor or from fans showing support for causes that resonate with her. As she put it, “When young people give me the bracelets, I just immediately put them on… I’ll wear them until they break.”

Along with the bracelets, Staley also wears four necklaces, each serving as a powerful reminder of someone or something. One was given to her by Plies, the rapper who has become a strong supporter of Staley’s program. It’s a replica of the NCAA Tournament trophy, encrusted with diamonds.

Another necklace was made by a young girl named Blakely, who was undergoing cancer treatment at UVA Children’s Hospital when she met Staley. The two bonded over color schemes, and Blakely later surprised Staley by making her a necklace. Staley wears it daily.

The fourth necklace has an equally moving story. It was made by a young man battling sickle cell disease, whom Staley met at a local children’s hospital. Staley shared that her cousin had passed away from the same disease, making the necklace all the more meaningful. “It gives me perspective on what we’re doing, where we are,” she said. “And really for us, although we think it’s our world, our passion, what we do, it really is just basketball. When you put it in perspective of what other people have to go through.”

As South Carolina prepares for their Sweet 16 game against Maryland, Staley’s mindset is about more than just basketball. It’s about the perspective she gains from the gifts and stories shared with her.

South Carolina’s Sweet 16 game:

• Who: South Carolina vs. Maryland
• When: 5 p.m. Friday
• TV: ESPN
• Stream: ESPN app

This story was first published on March 25, 2025, at 8:30 AM.