By Michael Sauls and Morgan Hughes | Updated April 29, 2025
COLUMBIA, S.C. — A long-awaited statue honoring legendary South Carolina women’s basketball coach Dawn Staley will be unveiled Wednesday—but not at the site originally announced.
The University of South Carolina confirmed Monday that the statue will stand at the corner of Senate and Lincoln streets, near the Pastides Alumni Center in Columbia’s Vista district. The location sits just across from the Columbia Convention Center, a few blocks from the statue’s initially proposed spot near the State House.
In early 2023, Columbia Mayor Daniel Rickenmann had announced plans for the statue to be placed at Main and Gervais streets, directly across from the State House. However, city spokesperson Payton Lang clarified Monday that the new spot still qualifies as downtown and was chosen with Staley’s personal wishes in mind.
One key detail influenced the final decision: Staley requested that her statue not be placed at Colonial Life Arena, where her team plays, saying that area should honor her players. A statue of A’ja Wilson, South Carolina’s all-time great, was installed outside the arena in 2021.
Still, Staley had one specific request: that the State House be visible behind the statue. According to Lang, the city’s public works team scouted and proposed the new location as one that meets that vision.
Originally announced in February 2023, the project culminates with the unveiling of an 11-foot, 1,000-pound statue—which arrived in Columbia in August 2024. Estimated to cost $140,000, the monument was made possible through a partnership between the City of Columbia, Statues for Equality, and local business leaders.
In a statement, city officials praised Staley’s legacy, noting that the tribute recognizes not only her achievements on the court, but also her impact as a leader, mentor, and community figure. “Dawn Staley’s influence continues to inspire both on and off the court,” the city said. “This statue stands as a lasting symbol of excellence, resilience, and pride for Columbia and South Carolina.”
Staley’s career at South Carolina is nothing short of historic. Since taking over in 2008, she has built the Gamecocks into a national powerhouse. Under her leadership, USC has claimed three national titles (2017, 2022, 2024), reached seven Final Fours, won nine SEC Tournament championships, and amassed a 457-110 record over 17 seasons.
The statue will be unveiled during a public ceremony at 4 p.m. Wednesday, offering fans and the community a chance to honor one of the most transformative figures in the history of South Carolina sports.
