Dawn Staley’s acceptance of the statue made for her is a contradiction of her proclamation of Christian faith, as she allowed herself to become an idol. This is what analyst and critic Jason Whitlock said on the matter in his commentary program.
In one of the recent episodes of his program “Fearless,” Jason Whitlock blasted Dawn Staley for letting herself become an “idol,” despite allegedly proclaiming Christian faith.
“Dawn Staley had a statue erected for her in Columbia, South Carolina. She’s won three national championships, and she’s sitting out there. They’ve erected a statue, and I know everybody thinks that, what do you complain about? This is completely appropriate and I disagree,” Whitlock said.
“Colombia is having Dawn Staley month. May is the month of Dawn Staley. They’ve erected a statue, and they’re having Dawn Staley month.”
“Dawn Staley claims a Christian faith,” Whitlcok pointed out. “She’s watching herself be made an idol, and she’s celebrating it. What has she done to deserve a month? Basketball? And you’re making yourself an idol, and you’re helping people put you on, and she just doesn’t deserve that. And particularly if you’re going to claim the faith.”
“Cut it out,” Whitlock added. “You’re not an idol. No one’s an idol. You shouldn’t have idols. And this whole thing, we’re just too quick.”
Dawn Staley’s recognition with a statue and a dedicated month has sparked debate, with some critics questioning whether such honors are warranted. Some observers have argued that while Dawn Staley’s contributions to women’s basketball are undeniable, the level of recognition she has received is unprecedented for a coach.
Dawn Staley Honored with Statue, “Dawn Staley Month”
Dawn Staley, the legendary head coach of South Carolina women’s basketball, has been honored with both a statue and an entire month dedicated to her legacy. The city of Columbia, South Carolina, unveiled a 14-foot bronze statue of Dawn Staley, depicting her standing on a ladder and holding a cut-down basketball net.
The statue, located near the University of South Carolina Alumni Center, joins the one of A’ja Wilson, another South Carolina basketball icon.
In addition to the statue, Columbia’s mayor, Daniel Rickenmann, declared May as “Dawn Staley Month.” The decision was made to celebrate not only her achievements in basketball but also her commitment to leadership, equity, and community empowerment.
Dawn Staley has transformed South Carolina’s basketball program into a powerhouse, leading the team to three NCAA championships and multiple Final Four appearances.
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Sabel has been working as a field reporter for People’s Television Network (PTV), mainly about the Philippine Basketball Association since 2016 and has been elevated to Executive Producer for sports in 2022. Aside from being on top of the Philippine sports scene, she is also a running enthusiast. You can also follow her on X at @SabelReyes2 and Instagram at @msabelreyes.
