Dawn Staley Brings Top-Ranked South Carolina to HBCU Powerhouse Coppin State

BALTIMORE, MD - When Dawn Staley, the renowned head coach of the University of South Carolina Gamecocks, brought her nationally ranked women's basketball team to face Coppin State University, an HBCU (Historically Black College and University) in Baltimore, it was about much more than the final score of 90-48. This was a symbolic and impactful moment for the HBCU community, rooted in Staley's own experiences and the trailblazing legacies of coaches who paved the way before her.

A Measuring Stick, Not a Favor

Staley, a former HBCU star herself at the University of Virginia and an HBCU coaching legend, understands the challenges that these institutions face in securing high-profile matchups against top-tier Division I programs. "I can remember when I was at Temple, we couldn't get very many high-level Division I teams to play us on our home court," Staley recalled. "So I always think about those times and give people an opportunity to play a game like this."

For Staley, this game was not about charity or optics, but about providing valuable exposure and access for the Coppin State program. "You have to continue to familiarize yourself with playing at that level in order to reach that level," Staley explained. "If we played them again, would it be a 42-point game? Probably not. Because they've learned."

The Packed Gym Was the Proof

The environment inside Coppin State's Physical Education Complex spoke volumes about the significance of this matchup. "That gym was packed," Staley said.

Staley recognized the importance of this visibility for the Coppin State program. "You expose yourselves to maybe somebody who enjoys watching the game," she said. "If you could get one or two people to come back, get season tickets, just watch and support, then you're moving the needle."

The HBCU Lineage Behind the Decision

Staley's decision to bring her South Carolina team to Coppin State was also rooted in her deep respect for the HBCU basketball coaching lineage. "I know Yolanda. Coach Stringer," she said, referring to Yolanda Laney and C. Vivian Stringer, two legendary HBCU coaches who helped shape the landscape of women's basketball long before the sport's current popularity.

"When it wasn't as popular as it is today, they were in the trenches doing historical things," Staley said. "We lose sight of that because we're so into what's happening today."

HBCUConnect's Perspective:

This game at Coppin State represents a significant milestone for the HBCU community. Staley's commitment to providing meaningful access and exposure for an HBCU program speaks volumes about her understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities faced by these institutions. By honoring the legacies of pioneering HBCU coaches like Yolanda Laney and C. Vivian Stringer, Staley is ensuring that the current generation of HBCU student-athletes and programs are empowered to reach new heights. This game is not just about a scoreboard; it's about building bridges, fostering growth, and elevating the visibility of HBCU athletics on a national stage.

Originally reported by HBCU Gameday.