Dawn Staley Honored with Statue in Columbia, Symbolizing Progress

The statue of the celebrated South Carolina coach will stand where a Confederate flag once flew, marking a significant moment for the community.

Dawn Staley will be commemorated with a statue at the South Carolina statehouse, recognizing her achievements and impact beyond the basketball court.
The statue, a partnership with Statues for Equality, aims to celebrate diversity and the accomplishments of women and people of color.
Staley's statue will join that of A’ja Wilson, making them the only USC athletes honored in this manner, highlighting the rarity of such recognitions for black women.
The decision to erect the statue was not influenced by Staley but by the community's desire to honor her contributions to the sport and society.
Critics argue Staley inserted race into the conversation unnecessarily, overlooking the broader context of her achievements and the statue's significance.