Lisa Leslie Shows Support for Dawn Staley at NCAA Tournament
Columbia, South Carolina – Basketball legend Lisa Leslie, renowned for her illustrious career as a three-time MVP with the Los Angeles Sparks and a four-time Olympic gold medalist, was a prominent figure in the stands Friday, lending her unwavering support to one of her closest friends, Dawn Staley, as she coached a pivotal game in the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament.
This momentous occasion marked the first time Leslie had the opportunity to witness Staley, her teammate throughout four remarkable Olympic Games, lead her team on the March Madness stage. Staley’s South Carolina Gamecocks are making their 13th appearance in the NCAA Tournament under her exceptional guidance. On Friday, the reigning national champions showcased their dominance by trouncing No. 16 seed Tennessee Tech with a resounding 108-48 victory in the first-round matchup.
When asked about her presence at the game, Leslie explained, "Why today? It just worked out. My kids are on spring break," suggesting a fortunate alignment of schedules that allowed her to be there for her friend and former teammate.
While Leslie had previously attended a South Carolina game against Michigan in Las Vegas earlier this season, being present in Columbia for the intensity and excitement of March Madness presented an entirely different and more electrifying atmosphere.
"What she’s done for this program," Leslie passionately expressed to USA TODAY Sports, "obviously, this community, and built this up, and what the impact she’s had on women’s basketball worldwide, and through the Olympics, you know, being one of my teammates and then becoming a coach, she’s outstanding." Her words conveyed a deep admiration and respect for Staley’s accomplishments both on and off the court.
The bond between Leslie and Staley runs deep, forged through years of shared experiences and unwavering camaraderie. Together, they achieved an astounding 60-0 record while representing the United States on the Olympic stage from 1996 to 2008. These experiences not only solidified their athletic partnership but also allowed them to learn invaluable lessons about each other, creating a lasting friendship that transcends the boundaries of the basketball court.
"You get to know a person," Leslie reflected, "the kind of person that they are, how they show up, you know a person during tough times because it was tough, and you helped each other through that. So it really is like a family of sisterhood in a way." Her words highlighted the profound connection they shared, emphasizing the support and understanding they provided each other during challenging moments.
This remarkable sisterhood, built on mutual respect and unwavering support, spans generations, and Leslie deeply appreciates Staley’s dedication to honoring the women who paved the way for them.
"There’s been so many women that have come before, and I love that Dawn never forgets that," Leslie emphasized, recognizing Staley’s commitment to acknowledging and celebrating the legacy of those who helped shape the landscape of women’s basketball.
As Leslie departed after Friday’s game, she offered a final message of encouragement to Staley: "Keep doing what you’re doing. She’s great. She’s amazing. Bettering women." Her words encapsulated her unwavering belief in Staley’s abilities and her dedication to empowering women through sports.
The presence of Lisa Leslie at the NCAA Tournament game served as a powerful testament to the enduring bond between two basketball icons. It highlighted the importance of friendship, support, and the lasting impact of shared experiences. Leslie’s unwavering admiration for Staley’s achievements and her commitment to uplifting women resonated deeply, underscoring the power of sports to create meaningful connections and inspire future generations. Their story is not just about basketball; it’s about sisterhood, legacy, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence. The legacy of these two extraordinary athletes continues to inspire and empower women around the world. Their impact extends far beyond the basketball court, leaving an indelible mark on the sport and the lives of countless individuals who have been touched by their achievements. Leslie’s presence was a reminder of the power of mentorship, support, and the importance of celebrating those who have paved the way for others.
Dylan Clearfield, a student in the University of Georgia’s Sports Media Certificate program, captured this moment.
