Coach Dawn Staley Announces Wedding Date – Invites Past & Present Gamecocks to Celebrate
Columbia, S.C. – In a heartwarming announcement that has swept through the Gamecock community, University of South Carolina women’s basketball head coach Dawn Staley has officially revealed her wedding date, inviting both past and present Gamecock players to be part of the special occasion. The celebration is set to take place on August 3, 2025, marking a joyful new chapter in the life of one of college basketball’s most iconic figures.
Staley, 54, made the announcement via social media on Friday evening, posting a candid video alongside her longtime partner, whom she affectionately introduced as “my forever teammate.” The post, captioned “It’s our time. August 3rd. Gamecock family, you’re invited,” quickly garnered thousands of reactions, with fans, fellow coaches, and former players flooding the comments with messages of love and congratulations.
In the video, Staley emphasized the importance of the Gamecock family in her life and legacy. “South Carolina has given me so much – purpose, pride, and people I’ll love for a lifetime. I want this day to reflect that. I want to celebrate not just love, but the journey and everyone who’s been part of it,” she said.
True to her words, invitations will be extended to former and current players, staff, and key supporters of the women’s basketball program. The ceremony and reception are expected to be held in Columbia, with several former Gamecock stars already confirming their attendance, including A’ja Wilson, Tiffany Mitchell, and Aliyah Boston.
Wilson, a WNBA MVP and Staley’s most famous protégé, shared her excitement on Instagram, posting, “Coach Staley found her person – and we’re gonna celebrate the RIGHT way! Can’t wait to be there.”
The wedding announcement comes just months after Staley led the Gamecocks to another undefeated season and national championship, further cementing her status as one of the greatest coaches in NCAA history. Her leadership, charisma, and advocacy have transformed the South Carolina program into a national powerhouse and have earned her admiration far beyond basketball.
Staley’s openness about this personal milestone is being widely praised by fans and advocates alike, many noting the symbolic impact of her choosing to celebrate love so publicly while including the broader Gamecock family. “She’s always led with love and loyalty,” said one fan on X. “This just proves it.”
As the August date approaches, preparations are already underway for what promises to be a celebration full of joy, gratitude, and the enduring bonds that make the Gamecock community so unique.