Breaking News: South Carolina Gamecocks and Dawn Staley Secure Aliyah Boston in $17 Million Deal
Columbia, SC – The South Carolina Gamecocks and head coach Dawn Staley have once again proven their commitment to excellence, signing a groundbreaking deal with former collegiate standout and WNBA star Aliyah Boston. The $17 million agreement will bring Boston back to Columbia in a unique partnership that blends player development, brand building, and community engagement.
This unprecedented deal, confirmed earlier today, is believed to be one of the most significant financial agreements ever made between a college program and an athlete-turned-professional. Boston, a Gamecocks legend and cornerstone of the team’s 2022 NCAA Championship run, will now serve as a key figure in elevating the program both on and off the court.
“This is a monumental moment for our program and for women’s basketball,” Staley said in a press conference. “Aliyah embodies everything we strive for here at South Carolina—grit, determination, excellence, and the ability to inspire those around her. To have her back with the Gamecock family is a dream come true.”
The deal reportedly includes a combination of promotional appearances, mentorship roles with current players, and participation in community outreach initiatives led by the university. Additionally, Boston will have opportunities to work with Staley on projects aimed at growing women’s basketball and empowering young athletes.
“I’m beyond excited to be back where it all started,” Boston said.
“South Carolina isn’t just a place where I played basketball; it’s a place that shaped me into who I am today. I’m thrilled to work with Coach Staley again and give back to the program and the community that gave me so much.”
Boston, who currently plays for the Indiana Fever in the WNBA, has emerged as a force in professional basketball since being drafted No. 1 overall in 2023. Her dominance on the court and her leadership off it have made her one of the brightest stars in the sport.
The deal also underscores Staley’s vision of creating a powerhouse program that goes beyond championships.
The Gamecocks have consistently been at the forefront of innovation in women’s basketball, and this agreement with Boston is another example of their trailblazing approach.
With Boston’s return to the program in this capacity, South Carolina is setting a new standard for collaboration between current and former athletes. Fans are already buzzing with excitement about the impact this partnership will have on the team’s future and the broader landscape of women’s basketball.
The Gamecocks, who are already among the elite programs in the nation, now have an even brighter spotlight as they prepare for the upcoming season.
