Dawn Staley’s Record & Reaction to Loss
South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley now holds a 3-1 record in national title games. Her lone defeat came Sunday at Amalie Arena in a tough 82-59 loss to UConn. She credited UConn for their strong performance: “They executed flawlessly on both ends. Their talent, paired with solid role players, makes them tough to beat unless you’re having an exceptional game.”
Reflecting on her team, she added, “I’m saying goodbye to a senior class that has changed our program, the sport, and left a lasting impact on our city and state.”
Looking Ahead
“Losing the final game should motivate us. I’m actually excited about next year’s team they’ll have the talent to make it back here,” Staley said.
Comparing UConn Matchups
“We defended the three well early. Our plan was to force them into twos, but the threes they hit changed the momentum. Once they built a double-digit lead, it became a real challenge.”
Game Execution
“We stuck to our strategy in the first half but couldn’t convert on our usual shots. Turnovers and missed layups gave UConn easy points. While the final score might not show it, we executed better than it looks.”
Senior Class Legacy
“I constantly remind them how special they are. No other group has accomplished what they have. Wherever we traveled, we were treated with respect because of them. They’ve become the winningest class in the country.”
“They let me coach them in my most authentic way. I could have real talks with them, conversations that might sting others. That’s what they’ll face in the WNBA, and I hope I’ve prepared them for it.”
Underclassmen Response
“I hope the younger players are crying. That emotional reaction makes you reflect and drives improvement. They’re a talented bunch with the drive to come back stronger.”
Second Half Struggles
“We weren’t in a terrible spot at halftime just down 10 and leading in rebounds. But turnovers gave UConn easy points, and our ball screen defense slipped. I told our team: you’ve got to hit shots to beat a team like UConn.”
Handling the Loss
“Our players gave everything. Having won three titles, I understand both sides now. UConn outplayed us, but they didn’t break our spirit and that’s a key distinction.”
Next Season’s Outlook
“We’ll lose a seasoned senior group, but the mindset won’t change. We still have players with championship experience who can build on that legacy.”
WNBA Readiness
“They’re winners. They’ve been coached well and understand how to defend and play their roles. They’re not just skilled players, they’re quality people and great assets for any WNBA team.”
Supporting Joyce Edwards
“I let her feel the pain. Sometimes, sitting in that emotion is more powerful than trying to move past it too quickly. We’ll talk, but I wanted her to process it first.”
On Winston Gandy’s New Role
“I’m thrilled for him. There aren’t many Black men in head coaching roles, so seeing him get this opportunity means a lot. I’m incredibly proud.”
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