The NCAA tournament now enters its final stages, with the rankings shaping the future of the programs and the senior players. Defending champion UConn built a substantial lead in the Big East with Geno Auriemma’s team registering its best start to the season. Elsewhere, the South Carolina Gamecocks also handed coach Dawn Staley a major achievement, entering her 26th season.
One of the most decorated and winningest coaches in the tournament reached her 500th win, defeating Kim Mulkey’s LSU Tigers in a recent game. While it was the Gamecocks’ 18th consecutive win over LSU, players celebrated wildly with the coach.
Dawn Staley Celebrates 500 NCAA Wins With Tessa Johnson
Following a strong start to the season, the Gamecocks reached third place nationwide and had a stiff challenge from LSU. But standout junior player Tessa Johnson once again delivered a clinical performance, netting four three pointers in her 21-point rout as the Gamecocks recorded a 79-72 win.
Her scoring performance equaled Aliyah Boston’s feat of scoring back-to-back 20 points against top 10 AP teams. The mood in the locker room was jubilant as the coach celebrated her 500th in style.
Congratulations to Dawn Staley on achieving 500 career wins as a head coach 👏 pic.twitter.com/RUWqQSytOX
— WNBA Got Game (@wnbagotgame) February 15, 2026
After the win, Stalley bettered her record to 500-112 for the Gamecocks, making her the winningest coach for the program with a solid .817 winning percentage. She also won her three NCAA championships with the South Carolne team.
Scroll to continue reading
Trending WNBA News
While the coach shared her joy and achievements with her players, there was always a surprise in store for them, and the recent one shook WNBA star Candace Parker.
Dawn Staley Brings Louis Vuitton Store To South Carolina Facility
The Gamecocks’ coach enters the court in stylish attire and always shows up in branded clothing. There is one exception: Staley wore the 2025-26 NFL Super Bowl winner, Nick Emmanwori’s, jersey to honor his incredible season.
So, in January, the coach decided to put on a fashion parade for the roster and nearly opened a whole Louis Vuitton store at the facility. Staley transformed the South Carolina locker room into a luxury experience, allowing her team members to select their own Louis Vuitton shoes. Candace Parker was called a legend for her act.
In addition to the footwear, bags, and other luxury items, the team had access to other items. Her former player, Aliyah Boston, also reacted to her act, recalling her days at South Carolina.