Official announcements from organizations like the WBCA or AP

Dawn Staley Becomes Highest-Paid Women's College Basketball Coach with $25.25 Million South Carolina Extension Through 2029-30

Jan 17, 2025, 04:31 PM

The University of South Carolina's Board of Trustees has approved a contract extension for women's basketball coach Dawn Staley, making her the highest-paid coach in women's college basketball history. The new deal, which extends through the 2029-30 season, will see Staley earn an annual salary starting at $4 million, increasing by $250,000 each year to reach $5.25 million by the end of the contract. The total value of the contract is approximately $25.25 million, including a $500,000 signing bonus. Previously, Staley was the third-highest-paid coach in the sport, behind LSU's Kim Mulkey and UConn's Geno Auriemma, with an annual salary of $3.1 million. This extension marks a significant milestone in women's college basketball, reflecting the growing value of the sport and Staley's impact on the University of South Carolina.