In a groundbreaking move that could reshape the landscape of professional basketball, the New York Knicks have reportedly reached out to Dawn Staley, the iconic head coach of the South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball team, for their head coaching vacancy. South Carolina athletic director Jeremiah Donati confirmed to On3 Sports that the Knicks contacted Staley about the position, stating, “If I were them, I would have called her, too.” This development follows the Knicks’ dismissal of Tom Thibodeau on June 3, 2025, after a strong but ultimately unsuccessful season that ended in the Eastern Conference Finals.
Staley, a towering figure in basketball, has an illustrious coaching resume. Since taking the helm at South Carolina in 2008, she has transformed the Gamecocks into a powerhouse, leading them to three NCAA championships (2017, 2022, 2024) and seven Final Four appearances. Her 475-110 record at South Carolina includes an undefeated 38-0 season in 2023-24, cementing her as one of the greatest coaches in women’s basketball history. A six-time WNBA All-Star and three-time Olympic gold medalist as a player, Staley also coached the U.S. women’s national team to gold in 2021. Her blend of championship pedigree, player development expertise, and leadership makes her a compelling candidate for the Knicks.
If hired, Staley would make history as the first female head coach in the NBA, shattering a significant gender barrier in professional sports. Her potential appointment has sparked widespread excitement, with discussions highlighting her ability to develop talent and foster a winning culture. Staley’s teams emphasize defense, particularly in the paint, and capitalize on transition opportunities—strategies that align with the Knicks’ recent playing style under Thibodeau. Her long-standing relationship with Knicks assistant coach Rick Brunson, who mentored her at Temple University, could facilitate a smooth transition.
However, Staley’s interest in the role remains uncertain. She signed a $25.25 million contract extension with South Carolina in 2021, making her the highest-paid women’s college basketball coach, with the deal running through the 2029-30 season. Despite a clause allowing her to leave for an NBA or WNBA head coaching job without a buyout, Staley has expressed strong commitment to South Carolina. In 2021, she interviewed with the Portland Trail Blazers but remained with the Gamecocks. The Knicks’ coaching position, however, offers a unique opportunity to coach in a basketball mecca under intense scrutiny, potentially tempting her to make the leap.
The Knicks’ coaching search has been extensive, with candidates like Mike Brown, Taylor Jenkins, and Micah Nori also in consideration. Reports suggest Brown is a strong contender, but Staley’s inclusion signals the franchise’s willingness to think outside the box. Knicks player Karl-Anthony Towns humorously acknowledged the rumors on social media, referencing Staley’s fiery coaching style. As the Knicks aim to end their championship drought since 1973, hiring Staley could usher in a bold new era for the franchise and the NBA.
