Why Dawn Staley says it’s important for Gamecocks to play UConn every year

Dawn Staley, the head coach of the South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball team, has emphasized the importance of playing the University of Connecticut (UConn) Huskies annually due to several key reasons:

Elevating Program Standards

Facing UConn, a team with a storied history of success under coach Geno Auriemma, provides South Carolina with a benchmark for excellence. Staley has acknowledged UConn’s role in setting high standards in women’s basketball, stating, “A lot of what we’re able to do and get is off the backs of their success.” This sentiment reflects her recognition of UConn’s influence on the sport and the opportunity it presents for her team to measure and elevate their performance. citeturn0search7

Enhancing National Exposure

Matchups between South Carolina and UConn attract significant national attention, contributing to the growth and visibility of women’s basketball. Staley has noted that these games generate high anticipation and viewership, making them major events in college sports. She remarked, “I just think it’s become a great anticipation game for all of basketball, not just college, not just women’s basketball, but all of college basketball.” citeturn0search0

Fostering Competitive Growth

Regularly competing against top-tier teams like UConn challenges the Gamecocks to improve continually. Staley believes that such high-caliber games are crucial for the development of her players and the program as a whole. She has expressed that playing against UConn provides valuable experience and exposure to the highest levels of competition. citeturn0search1

Building a National Powerhouse

Staley’s vision includes establishing South Carolina as a perennial national contender. Consistently scheduling games against established programs like UConn is a strategic move to build a strong non-conference schedule, which is essential for NCAA tournament seeding and preparation. This approach aligns with her goal of sustaining and enhancing the program’s national prominence. citeturn0search7

In summary, Dawn Staley advocates for annual games against UConn to benchmark her team’s progress, boost the sport’s visibility, foster competitive growth, and solidify South Carolina’s status as a national powerhouse in women’s basketball.