COLUMBIA, S.C. — On Friday, Coach Dawn Staley was awarded a contract extension that will position her as the highest-paid coach in women’s college basketball history, with a total worth close to $25 million.

Staley’s new deal extends through the 2029-30 season, starting at an annual salary of $4 million, which includes a yearly increase of $250,000. Additionally, she will receive a signing bonus amounting to $500,000, according to the announcement made by the university.

Jeremiah Donati, the athletics director, praised Staley for her significant contributions to the University of South Carolina and the sport as a whole. He expressed enthusiasm about her continued leadership, noting her profound impact on both the national stage and at the university itself.

Staley has guided the Gamecocks to six Final Four appearances within the past nine years, most recently achieving this feat for four consecutive years. The team secured national championships in 2017, 2022, and most recently in 2024, and they currently hold the second position in the AP poll while boasting a 17-1 record this season.

Recognized as a five-time Coach of the Year, Staley reflected on the importance of teamwork and community support in their success. She expressed her eagerness to demonstrate how investing in women’s basketball yields positive returns for everyone involved.

Former players have expressed their excitement regarding Staley’s groundbreaking achievement. Aliyah Boston, a noteworthy South Carolina alum, emphasized Staley’s advocacy for women’s basketball and her dedication to the sport. Boston noted how Staley, as an investor in initiatives like Unrivaled, consistently supports and contributes to elevating women’s basketball, reflecting on her journey as a player and coach.

The Gamecocks have also seen remarkable fan engagement, leading the country in attendance for the past ten seasons. In a historic milestone, the program sold out all 13,152 season tickets this year, marking a significant achievement for the team.