In a groundbreaking development for professional sports, Dawn Staley is reportedly in contention for the New York Knicks head coaching job, potentially making history as the first female head coach in a major men’s professional sports league.
On Saturday (June 28), Knicks Fan TV reported that Staley had emerged as a candidate and is expected to interview with the franchise amid its ongoing search to replace former head coach Tom Thibodeau, who was dismissed following the Knicks’ 2024 season. Thibodeau had led the team for five seasons.
Staley’s résumé is among the most decorated in basketball. She has served as head coach of the South Carolina Gamecocks women’s team since 2008, leading them to three national championships and seven Final Four appearances.
Dawn Staley
Head coach Dawn Staley of the South Carolina Gamecocks celebrates after beating the Oregon State Beavers in the Elite 8 round of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament at MVP Arena on March 31, 2024 in Albany, New York. Andy Lyons/Getty Images
Her reputation as a leader and tactician has placed her at the forefront of coaching excellence at both the collegiate and international levels.
Before her coaching career, Staley was a standout player at the University of Virginia, then spent eight seasons in the WNBA with the Charlotte Sting and Houston Comets.
She began her head coaching journey at Temple University, where she coached for eight seasons prior to joining South Carolina.
South Carolina Gamecocks
A’ja Wilson #22 and head coach Dawn Staley of the South Carolina Gamecocks hold the NCAA trophy and celebrates with their team after winning the championship game against the Mississippi State Lady Bulldogs of the 2017 NCAA Women’s Final Four at American Airlines Center on April 2, 2017 in Dallas, Texas. Ron Jenkins/Getty Images
If hired, Staley would break a significant gender barrier in professional sports. While women like Becky Hammon, Teresa Weatherspoon, and Lindsey Harding have served in assistant coaching and developmental roles in the NBA, none have yet taken the helm of a men’s pro team.
Staley’s candidacy has already generated buzz across the basketball world, with fans and analysts alike lauding the Knicks for considering a coach of her caliber.
Her blend of player experience, championship pedigree, and proven leadership could signal a bold new era for the Knicks—and professional sports at large.
Dawn Staley
Head coach Dawn Staley of the South Carolina Gamecocks reacts in the fourth quarter against the UConn Huskies in the National Championship of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament at Amalie Arena on April 06, 2025 in Tampa, Florida. Carmen Mandato/Getty Images