Alaina Coates returns to South Carolina as an assistant coach and player development advisor, driven by her passion for mentorship and a desire to give back to her alma mater.
Alaina Coates, a name synonymous with South Carolina women’s basketball excellence, has returned to her alma mater—not just as a former player, but as a mentor, coach, and community advocate. Her return signifies more than a career milestone; it embodies a commitment to nurturing the next generation of athletes and giving back to the program that shaped her.
A Star is Born: From Dutch Fork to Gamecock Glory
Born and raised in Irmo, South Carolina, Alaina Coates’ basketball journey began at Dutch Fork High School, where she was a force to be reckoned with. A McDonald’s All-American and the 2013 Gatorade South Carolina Player of the Year, Coates led her high school team to consecutive state championships, showcasing her prowess on the court .en.wikipedia.org+1espn.com+1
Her exceptional high school career paved the way for her to join the University of South Carolina’s women’s basketball team under the guidance of Coach Dawn Staley. At 6’4″, Coates brought a combination of size, skill, and determination that quickly made her a standout player.sc.edugamecocksonline.com
College Career: Dominance and Leadership
During her tenure at South Carolina from 2013 to 2017, Coates established herself as one of the premier centers in collegiate basketball. She was a four-time All-SEC selection, earning first-team honors in her final two seasons, and was named to the SEC All-Defensive Team twice .en.wikipedia.org+6amp.thestate.com+6sc.edu+6en.wikipedia.org
Coates played a pivotal role in leading the Gamecocks to their first-ever NCAA National Championship in 2017. Despite suffering an injury that sidelined her during the SEC Tournament and the NCAA Tournament run, her leadership and presence were felt throughout the season .gamecocksonline.com+1espn.com+1sc.edu
Off the court, Coates was equally impactful. She was known for her community involvement, including speaking at local elementary schools, visiting medical facilities, and volunteering for Meals on Wheels. Her efforts earned her a spot on the SEC Community Service Team, reflecting her dedication to making a positive impact beyond basketball .sc.edu
Professional Pursuits: A Global Journey
After college, Coates was selected as the No. 2 overall pick in the 2017 WNBA Draft by the Chicago Sky. She went on to play for several WNBA teams, including the Minnesota Lynx, Atlanta Dream, Washington Mystics, and Indiana Fever. Her professional journey also took her overseas, where she played for teams in Turkey and Israel .gamecocksonline.com+6amp.thestate.com+6en.wikipedia.org+6en.wikipedia.org+1en.wikipedia.org+1
Throughout her professional career, Coates remained committed to personal growth and community service. She founded the Alaina Coates FAAM Foundation, which focuses on education and community development. One of the foundation’s notable projects was building a miniature library for the Ronald McDonald House in Columbia, South Carolina
Returning Home: A Full-Circle Moment
In 2025, Alaina Coates returned to the University of South Carolina, not as a player, but as an assistant coach and player development advisor. This move marked a full-circle moment in her career, allowing her to impart the wisdom and experiences she gained over the years to the next generation of Gamecocks.
Her return was met with enthusiasm from both the coaching staff and players. Coach Dawn Staley expressed her excitement, stating that Coates’ presence would be invaluable in mentoring the team’s post players and providing leadership both on and off the court. Coates’ deep understanding of the Gamecocks’ culture and her experience at the highest levels of basketball make her an ideal fit for this role.
Legacy of Mentorship and Giving Back
Alaina Coates’ journey is a testament to the power of mentorship and the importance of giving back. Her return to South Carolina is not just about basketball; it’s about shaping young lives, instilling values, and continuing a legacy of excellence.
Through her role as an assistant coach and player development advisor, Coates is poised to make a lasting impact on the Gamecocks program. Her unique perspective as a former player who has experienced the challenges and triumphs of collegiate and professional basketball enables her to connect with players in a meaningful way.
Beyond basketball, Coates’ commitment to community service and personal development continues to inspire. Her foundation’s initiatives and her active involvement in various charitable endeavors reflect her belief in the importance of giving back and making a positive impact on society.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future
As Alaina Coates embarks on this new chapter at the University of South Carolina, the future looks promising. Her wealth of experience, combined with her passion for mentorship and community service, positions her to be a transformative figure in the lives of young athletes.
The Gamecocks women’s basketball program, under the guidance of Coach Dawn Staley and with the addition of Coates to the coaching staff, is poised to continue its legacy of success. With a strong foundation built on excellence, leadership, and community, the future of South Carolina women’s basketball is brighter than
Alaina Coates’ return to South Carolina is more than a homecoming; it’s a commitment to legacy, mentorship, and the enduring impact of giving back. Her journey serves as an inspiration to all, illustrating that true success is measured not just by personal achievements, but by the positive influence one has on others.
