The NCAAW history will remember many legendary coaches who made their mark in the competition with their teams, wins, and impact on the floor. Dawn Staley joins the list with her current feat in the competition.
Just before the tip-off, Staley made an encouraging statement to WNBA players following the new CBA Deal, also urging her players to perform at the highest level to reap the fruits of their hard work and dedication.
In the opening game, the players did exceedingly well, winning the game against Southern University by 69 points. It also marked a major milestone for the coach.
Dawn Staley Records Her 50th NCAA Competition Win
The 55-year-old is one of the most decorated coaches in the NCAA Women’s basketball. Leading the South Carolina side to the illustrious status, the coach is a well-respected figure in the arenas.
During the Gamecocks’ opening game of the NCAA Tournament, the side dropped 103 points over Southern University and allowed just 34 points. Importantly, the 69-point victory was her 50th NCAA win for coach Staley.
Coach Staley really got that sh*t on 😭
— Complex Sports (@ComplexSports) March 21, 2026
South Carolina defeated Southern 103-34. pic.twitter.com/EaYEvf6hFf
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UConn coach Geno Auriemma leads the list with 142 wins, while Kim Mulkey ranks second with 66 wins among the active coaches. Coach Staley takes third place with 50 wins now under her belt in the March Madness tournament. Earlier in the season, Staley celebrated her 500th career win as coach and now joins the elite list of coaches with 50+ wins in March Madness.
The coach, though, showed a great gesture towards her opponents right before the game, visiting their hotel the night before.
Dawn Staley Gifts Southern University Players
After the SWAC champions beat Samford 65-53 in the First Four. The team secured a big win right before the NCAA competition game. But Dawn Staley surprised them with a visit to their hotel and handed them a sample of her signature fragrance. It was a piece for every player, showing respect for their game.
Lady Jaguars guard Mykayla Cunningham said. “Her being here, getting to hear the words she had for our team, it was just great. It’s great that she took the time out because she’s a very busy woman. She’s smart. She sat and watched the game. Wrote down notes about both teams; she’s going to be prepared. And that’s how we have to come out and be prepared against her.”
Dawn Staley made sure to get the Jaguars right, after their win over Samford 🤩
— NCAA March Madness (@MarchMadnessWBB) March 20, 2026
📺 ESPN2#MarchMadness pic.twitter.com/MQfoFeP5a8
Now, after the round 1 victory, the Gamecocks will face arch rivals USC in the second round on March 24.